MAVOURNEEN 

LOUIS N. PARKER 




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Book_ 



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COFXRIGHT DEPOSm 



MAVOURNEEN 



MAVOURNEEN 

A COMEDY IN THREE ACTS 



BY 

LOUIS N. PARKER 

V- 



NEW YORK 

DODD, MEAD AND COMPANY 

1916 



4/ 



COPTRIGHT. 1916, 

By LOUIS N. PARKER 



,<#.:£ 



OCT 3i 1316 



OCI.A445417 



NOTE 

If one had to label this play, one might call it a play 
of anecdotal history. Some of it comes from Pepy's 
Diary; some from Count Hamilton's Memoirs of Gram- 
mont; some from sterner authorities; and the rest is out 
of my own head. 

It was first produced in London, at His Majesty's 
Theatre, on the evening of Saturday, Oct. 23rd, 1915, 
with Miss Lily Elsie as Patricia, Mr. Malcolm Cherry 
as Charles II, Mr. C. V. France as Father O'RafFerty, 
Mr. Gerald Lawrence as Buckingham, Mr. Reginald 
Owen as Sidney Montagu, Mr. Edward Sass as Pepys, 
Miss Athene Seyler as Queen Catherine, Miss Alice 
Crawford as Lady Castlemaine, and Miss Dorothy 
Packer as Mrs. Pepys. 

In America it was first produced at the Powers Thea- 
tre in Chicago on the evening of May 28, 1916, with the 
following cast: — 

King Charlks II Pedro de Cordoba 

Buckingham JVarburton Gamble 

Arlington ,. . .Reginald Carrington 

Bristol Gordon Burby 

Ashley Vernon Denham 

Sir Charles Berkeley Henry Vincent 

Sidney Montagu Alexander Onslow 

Samuel Pepys John L. Shine 



Father O'Rafferty James 0. Barrows 

Chiffinch Allan Mason 

The Host of the Bear Tracy Barrow 

A Drawer John M. O'Brien 

Usher Francis Mack 

Hafiz Garrett Carroll 

Puppet Show Man Russell Huhley 

Queen's Surgeon John Alexander 

Queen's Secretary Maxwell Kennedy 

Queen's Chairman Harry Dee 

Queen Catherine , Saxone Morland 

Lady Castlemaine Belle Daube 

Lady Arlington Iseth Munro 

Mrs. Myddleton Ethel West 

Mrs. Roberts Eleanor Scott L'Estelle 

Miss Frances Brooke Helen Erskine 

Miss Hill Brooke Lyllian Charles 

Flower Girl Vera Mercer 

Lavender Girl Leslie McCarl 

Lady Shrewsbury Linden Champion 

Mrs. Pepys Margaret Prendergast 

MoYRA Mattie Keene 

Mercer . . . ., Carrington North 

A Maid Edna Waddell 

Patricia O'Brien Peggy O'Neil 



PERSONS 
{In the order of their appearance^ 

MOYRA 

Father O'Rafferty 

Patricia O'Brien 

The Host of the " Bear " 

A Drawer 

George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham 

George Digby, Earl of Bristol 

Anthony, Baron Ashley 

George, Baron Berkeley 

Sidney Montagu 

Lady Castlemaine 

Mrs. Myddleton 

Mrs. Roberts 

Samuel Pepys 

Mrs. Pepys 

Mercer 

Queen Catherine of Braganza 

William Chiffinch 

Usher 

Henry Bennett, Earl of Arlington 

King Charles II. 

Miss Hill Brooke 



Miss Frances Brooke 
Lady Arlington 
Hafiz {Persona muta) 
A Maid 
Lords and Ladies, Servants, Moh, Tradespeople, Ne- 
gro Pages. 

The action takes place in Castle O'Brien; at the Bear 
Inn in Drury Lane; in the Palace of Whitehall; and at 
Tunbridge Wells. 

Period: — In Good King Charles' Golden Days. 



ACT I 



ACT I 



Scene 1 : — 



Moyra's room in Castle O'Brien, the half-ruined seat of 
Lord Belisle. The room is high up in the angle of a 
tower. There is a deeply embrasured window at the 
back, beyond which is nothing but blue sky. In the 
raftered roof is a dormer window, also open to the sky. 
In an angle on the left is a small door opening on tur- 
ret stairs, both up and down. There is a large open 
fireplace on the right, with a peat fire; over it hangs a 
cauldron in which a stew is steaming. A rough lable, 
a dresser, one straxv~bottomed chair, and three stools 
are all the furniture. 

MoYRA, an old woman, is crouching over the stew, croon- 
ing a song. Father O'Rafferty, a genial old priest 
in a shabby gown, gently opens the door and puts his 
head in; then he enters, playing on a fiddle. He stands 
behind Moyra and accompanies her very softly. She 
stops in alarm and listens a moment without daring to 
turn round. 

MOYRA 

[To herself.] Glory be to God ! It's me voice sing- 
ing without me ! Ow ! Father O'RafFerty ! And me 



MAVOURNEEN 

that frightened I dursn't look. ^She rises, curtseys, and 
crosses herself.} 

o'rafferty 
Your conscience is unaisy, Moyra, woman. Where's 
Pat? [He puts his fiddle, bow and hat on the dresser.'} 

MOYRA 

[Dusting a stool.] God save you kindly, your River- 
ence. Be seated, and take an air of the fire. [She offers 
a chair.} Is it to larn her the dancing you've come.'' 

o'rafferty 
[Sitting.} Whisht! Do you know the news .^ 

MOYRA 

News is it? What news comes to Castle O'Brien, un- 
less you climb them stairs to bring it? 

o'rafferty 
Ay, and 'twas weary work, for 'tis bad news this time. 

MOYRA 

'Tis a year and a day since we had good. But what 
is it now? Is his Lordship to send Pat away from us? 

o'rafferty 
And that's not the worst of it. [With an effort.} 
She's to be married. 

-C 4 > 



ACT I ' 

MOYRA 

Holy Saints — don't tell me — ! 

o'rafferty 

And that's not the worst of it! 

MOYRA 

Who's the man ? 

o'rafferty 
That's the worst of it. \^Lowering his voice and beck- 
, oning to her.^ Whisper here. Sir Timothy O'Reilly. 

MOYRA 

[Horrified.] Tim — ! Tim O'Reilly! 

o'rafferty 
Tim O'Reilly just! 

MOYRA 

Why, the man's fifty ; and thirty of *em he's never been 
sober, 

o'rafferty 

Little his lordship cares. For why? All his aim's to 
be rid of Pat out of the castle, and him free to begin the 
old life again. 

MOYRA 

Meela murder! wid the place full o' rapscallions male 
and female, by day and by night ! 

< 5 y 



MAVOURNEEN 

ORAFFERTY 

The ould devil's strong in his lordship and he's weary 
o' well-doing; so now he's for ridding the house of his 
good angel. 

MOYRA 

Does she know ? 

o'rafferty 
Sorrow a word. His Lordship hasn't dared tell her. 
He writes to me from Dublin, where he's consorting with 
all that's wicked and — fascinating; and, says he, " Tell 
her your own way. Padre." As if I had a way. 

MOYRA 

'Twill be a bad quarter of an hour for you, for Pat's 
got a taste of the Master's spirit in her. 

o'rafferty 
[Miserably. 1 Don't I know it.'' [After a pause.'\ 
Moyra — 

MOYRA 

Your Riverence? 

o'rafferty 
[Hesitatingly and insinuatingly.'] I was thinking, 
Moyra, was you to break it to her your way — 
< 6 > 



ACT I 

MOYRA 

Me ! You'd be for sending the goose to the fox. I'd 
liefer put me hand in the fire. 

o'rafferty 
Now, Moyra woman! 'Tis a woman's task; and 
you've had the handling of her since her mother died. 

MOYRA 

You're her taycher. 

o'rafferty 
I've learnt her the graces of life; and I've made a lady 
of her; but 'tis you've learnt her her paternoster, and 
'tis you she comes to for comfort. 

MOYRA 

And that's why I'll not give her such a down-blow. 
I'll not tell her. Tim O'Reilly, indeed ! Tim O'Reilly's 
no more fit — 

Patricia's voice 
[Outside from above the open dormer window."] 
What's Tim O'Reilly not fit for? 

MOYRA 

[FrigJitened.l Meela murder, what's that? 
< 7 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

o'rafferty 
{Looking round the room.'] She's in the room ! 

Patricia's voice 

She's not then ! 
[Her laughing face peers round the corner of the dormer 
window.] 

MOYRA 

[Pointing to it, Speechless.] Look! Look! 

o'rafferty 
Where are you, you pooka? [He sees her.] What 
the — what the plague are you doing up there ? How 
the mischief did you get there ? You'll break every bone 
in your body, and serve you right! Oh, whirra, whirra, 
come down at once, you little imp of perdition, till I talk 
to you. Why for don't you answer when you're spoken 
to? 

PATRICIA 

[Laughing.] I'm waiting till you take breath. Father 
aroon. 

o'rafferty 
Don't answer me ! Come down at once I 

PATRICIA 

Easier said than done. Wait till I turn on my stomach. 

< 8 > 



ACT I 

MOYRA 

^Horrified.] Hold your whisht ! 

PATRICIA 

l^Disappearing.J I'm coming! 

o'rafferty 
[Anxiously to Moyra.] Did she hear about the mar- 
riage? 

MOYRA 

She wouldn't have been laughing if she had. 
[A long, well filled stocking comes slowly down through 
the dormer window.^ 

MOYRA 

[Seeing it; shocked and indignant.'\ Holy Saints, put 
it in! [To O'Rafferty.] Turn away, your Riverence! 

Patricia's voice 
What's the matter now ? 

MOYRA 

Your leg, you omadaun ! Yards of your leg ! Put it 
away) cover it up ! Have you no shame ? 

Patricia's voice 
Why for will I be ashamed o' my leg? Help me down ! 
[Moyra reaches for the leg and takes hold of the foot. 
She pulls at the leg and it comes down in her hand. 

< 9 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

She throws it on ground, shrieking. The stocking is 

stuffed with straw and the open end is tied up with a 

garter.^ 

Patricia's voice 

There ! Now you've pulled my leg off, and how will 
I come down at all? 

o'rafferty 

Sure she's a very imp o' devilry! [Shouting at the 
dormer window.^ Come down this instant minute ! [No 
answer.^ 

MOYRA 

[Crosses to O'Rafferty.] Och, my heart's in my 

mouth. Now we must fetch a ladder. 

[Enter Patricia through the turret door. She is in a 
short skirt, and has only one stocking on. Her hair 
tumbles wildly about her; her clothes are covered with 
the dust of the roof; she carries her shoes in her hand.'\ 

PATRICIA 

[At door.'] What will you want a ladder for? 

MOYRA 

[To Patricia; speechless.'] Oh, you! — Oh, you! 
[She hugs and kisses her.] You young devil! [To 
O'Rafferty.] Saving your presence. And look at the 
state you're in! [She dusts her.] And only one stock- 
ing! 

-C 10 > 



ACT I 

PATRICIA 

[Flinging her shoes in a corner.^ We'll soon put that 
right. [She sits on a stool and whips off the other stock- 
ing; which she throws at Moyra.] There ! 

MOYRA 

[Picking up the stockings and shoes and putting them 
out of sight.] Och, you contrairy critter ! 

o'rafferty 
[To Patricia, sententiously .] Now, Lady Patricia, 
perhaps you'll be telling us what you was doing in that 
unusual and precarious position. 

PATRICIA 

[Sitting; quite calmly.'] Oh, there's a nest of house- 
martins up there, and a fledgling had fallen out of it be- 
fore 'twas ready, and was lying on the grass unable to 
take wing, with the old birds fluttering round it, nearly 
mad with sorrow. So I had to put it back, of course. 
[Rises.] Wouldn't you have done the same? 

MOYRA 

[Laughing.] If pigs could fly? 

o'rafferty 
[Severely, to Moyra.] Speak for yourself. [To Pa- 

-C 11 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

TRiciA.] What's the use of all my learning you manners, 
if the upshot's that you climb roofs like a — like a — 

PATRICIA 

Like a fairy — ? 

o'rafferty 
\_Se'verely.'\ That was not the word I was thinking 
of. , 

PATRICIA 

\Tahes his arm.'l That wasn't your teaching. Father 
darling; that was Daddy's. Ever since I was born a girl 
he's been making a boy of me. 

o'rafferty 
Till you're neither fish, flesh, fowl, nor good red her- 
ring. 

PATRICIA 

l^With an elaborate curtsey and an entire change of 
manner.^ I crave pardon, Reverendissime ! I can be 
any one of them according to my company. [She hands 
him his fiddle and bow.] Oh, here's your fiddle. Father 
aroon. Play up ! and see whether the grace have gone 
out o' me. 

MOYRA 

Eh! do now! 'Tis a pure joy to be watching her and 
listening to you. 

< 12 > 



ACT I 

o'rafferty 

No, no ! l^Clears his throat.] Moyra is wishful to be 
talking to you. 

MOYRA 

[Eagerly.] Not I ! Not I ! 'Tis his Riverence 
would have a word with you ! 

PATRICIA 

[Forcing the fiddle on him.] Play and talk, Father; 
and I'll dance and listen. 

o'rafferty 
[Sits on one of the stools. He plays softly a stately 

dance and talks tenderly through the music, while 

Patricia dances.] 

Forget your tomboy ways, then. The wild bogs van- 
ish; the ruined castle's gone; Moyra's room is a stately 
hall. You're dressed in silver and gold, and on your 
neck are glittering gems. 'Tis not a poor parish priest 
playing a cracked fiddle, but the music floods you like the 
waves when you swim. Do you see the great ladies curt- 
seying? Do you see the Lords bowing till their plumes 
touch the floor.'' 

PATRICIA 

[Dancing.] I see — ! I see — ! Moyra [curtseys 
to Moyra], you are the Queen, and I bow to you and bend 

-c 13 :}- 



MAVOURNEEN 

to you! [To O'Rafferty.] Was it like that at the 
court in Portugal when you was there? 

o'rapferty 
Ay, was it ! Hark ! I put the sun in my tune ! Hark 
again ! — That's the young Princess, so sweet and 
stately; that's Catherine of Braganza. 

PATRICIA 

She that is now Queen of England? 

o'rafferty 
She, herself, God save her! [Alluding to his fiddle.'] 
Hark to her! So gracious, so timid! Hark to her; 
speaking to me as kindly as though I was the Holy Father 
himself. 

PATRICIA 

[Still dancing.] Was it lovely at court. Father? 

o'rafferty 
Ay, was it ! With the King and Queen on their golden 
throne — ! 

MOYRA 

[Rocking herself in ecstasy.] Glory be to God ! 

PATRICIA 

And is it as lovely at the court of King Charles? 
-C 14 > 



ACT I 

o'rafferty 
[Still playing.'] No doubt, no doubt; though King 
Charles is a heretic. God grant his gentle Queen may 
open his heart. 

PATRICIA 

[Dancing.'] I want to go to court, Father. 

o'rafferty 
[Stopping his playing abruptly.] Eh — ? I nearly 
dropped my fiddle. 

PATRICIA 

[Making a rhyming jingle of it.] I want to go to 
court; I want to see the King; I want to love the little 
Queen, and wear a golden ring. 

MOYRA 

Begob ! It's the pothery she's making up ! 

PATRICIA 

'Tis the song I sing in my mind all the day long. 

o'rafferty 
[Crossing to Moyra — slyly.] "Who knows, eh, Moyra ? 
Perhaps when she's married? [Insisting.] Eh, Moyra? 

MOYRA 

Leave me be. 

< 15 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

Married ? How will I be married in this wilderness ? 

o'rafferty 
[To MoYRA.] Now, woman ! 

MOYRA 

[To O'RAFFERxy.] Play up, then, to give me heart! 
[O'Rafferty plays an Irish jig-^ 

PATRICIA 

[Clapping her hands with delight.^ O, Father! A 

jig-' 

[She dances.'j 

MOYRA 

[Working herself up.] Eh! That makes the blood 
run ! Here comes an Irish lad a-wooing ! and he has your 
father's good will; and he'll take his Irish bride to Lon- 
don town, and dance with her before the King. And it's, 
oh ! but the Lords and the Ladies stand agape, to see the 
smile upon your face, the beauty of your shape! [She, 
herself, has fallen into the rhythm of the jig as well as her 
old bones 'will allow her.] Whirroo-whoo ! 

PATRICIA 

[Comes to her, laughing out loud."} Moyra ! Moyra ! 
Is it mad you've gone all at once? 
[They all three dance.^ 

-C 16 > 



ACT I 

MOYRA 

^With increasing excitement.'] Play, Father, play! 
Dance acushla, dance ! Round about and up and down ! 
Dance into your bridal gown? For your father's said 
the word, and the wedding bells are heard — Soon, very 
soon. You shall be a wife aroon. Father here the Mass 
will sing ! You shall wear the wedding ring ! — At the 
wedding feast so gaily, I shall curtsey. Oh, my lady — 
oh, my lady — [with an outburst.] Tim O'Reilly! 

PATRICIA 

[Violently.'} Stop! 
[O'Rafferty ends abruptly on a hideous discord. He 
has been as excited as Moyra. Now the old couple are 
images of abject fear.] 

PATRICIA 

[Speaks xmih dangerous calmness.] What name was 
you pleased to mention ? 

MOYRA 

[Anxiously.] Play, your Riverence! 
[He tries to begin.] 

PATRICIA 

[To O'Rafferty, forgetting her manners.] Hold 
your whisht! [To Moyra.] Now, Moyra! 
[O'Rafferty sneaJcs to the dresser and picks up his hat.] 

-C 17 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

MOYRA 

Did I mention a name ? 

PATRICIA 

You said Tim O'Reilly — 

MOYRA 

Then why for do you ask me? 
[O'Rafferty is sneaking away.^ 

PATRICIA 

[Sternly.] Father! Stay where you are! 
[O'Rafferty stops short.'] 

[Looking from one to the other."] Is this a joke betune 
you? 

[Pause — they hang their heads guiltily.] 
It's no joke, I see. 

o'rafferty 
You're — you're coming on in years. Your father — 
[At a loss for words, he blows his nose.] 

PATRICIA 

[Refusing to help him out.] Yes? 

o'rafferty 
He wishes you well ; he's for setting you up — 
-C 18 > 



ACT I 

PATRICIA 

He's for clearing me out o' the place ; is that it ? 

o'rafferty 
A widowman's house is no place for a young girl. 

PATRICIA 

That depends on the widowman. But leave that. 
[To MoYRA.] You mentioned Tim O'Reilly. 

MOYRA 

A slip o' the tongue. 

PATRICIA 

IWalking up to O'Rafferty.] Do you mind the time 
I laid my horsewhip across him for trying to kiss me ? 

o'rafferty 
[Backing away — weakly.'] Did ye now ? 

PATRICIA 

Did I? I did so. What's wrong with you both? 
[Looks at them both.] It's serious earnest is it, and my 
father wants me to marry that blathermuskite .'' 

MOYRA 

So his Riverence says. 

o'rafferty 
So your father says. 

-C 19 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

[To MoYRA.] And Daddy asked you to broach the 
glorious news ? 

MOYRA 

\_Hastily.J Asked his Rivererice. 

PATRICIA 

Dad's frightened and sends his Reverence; and he's 
frightened and puts it on my nurse; and she's so fright- 
ened she has to work herself into Saint Vitus's dance be- 
fore she can speak. You poor souls ! — Now, let's be 
reasonable. [She sits on a stool.l I'll ask you one 
question; and if you answer "Yes," I'll pleasure my 
father, 

o'rafferty 

It's an angel you are entirely to take it so sweetly. 

MOYRA 

[To O'Rafferty.] Whisht, your Riverence, there's a 
little devil in the corner of her eye. 

o'rafferty 
[To Patricia who is sunk in thought.^ Ahem! — the 
question ? 

PATRICIA 

[Takes Moyra's hands.'] Yes. Moyra — 
[MoYRA kneels at Patricia's side.] 
-C 20 > 



ACT I 

You nursed my mother, and you saw me born. You've 
spent your life loving me, and giving me a clean soul in 
a clean body — 

MOYRA 

Glory be to God! 

PATRICIA 

Father ! 

\_He comes up to her.} 

You've taught me all I know ; and what is it you call me, 
Father? 

o'rafferty 
[With deep tenderness.'] The apple of my eye and the 
pride of my soul. Avourneeh ! 

PATRICIA 

Now comes the question; and you are to answer as if 
my dead mother was listening — 

[All cross themselves.] 
which she is. Can I marry Timothy O'Reilly ? — 
Moyra .'' — Father ? 

o'rafferty 

[After a great struggle, explodes.] By the powers — 



Moyra and O'Rafferty 



Begorra ! No ! 
[Together.] 
No! 
-C 21 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

[Gets up laughing.] Why, there's an end o' the mat- 
ter then, and let's say no more about it. 

c'rafferty 
IRuefully.'] Och, Pat ! It's the father of you will be 
saying things, and doing 'em, too! He'll keep you on 
bread and water till you consent. 

PATRICIA 

[^Facing him.'] Have you ever got anything out of me 
by force.'* 

c'rafferty 
[With conviction.] Divil a thing! 

MOYRA 

But what will you do, alanna .'' 

PATRICIA 

[Laughing.] I'll appeal to King Charles. 

o'rafferty 
[Goes to the dresser, picks up his fiddle, bow, and hat.] 
And him in London Town ! You might as well say you'll 
appeal to the Great Mogul, 

m 

PATRICIA 

[Dreamily, wrapt in the new idea.] London Town 
isn't at the world's end. 

< 22 > 



ACT I 

o'rafferty 
\Coming to her.'] And what, av you please, am I to 
say to your father ? 

PATRICIA 

Oh, Man of Eternity, temporise! 

o'rafferty 
Whirra, Whirra ! 'Twill be a bad quarter of an hour, 
and you may expect his Lordship here as fast as flogged 
horses can bring him! What he'll say to you, and do 
to you, I won't even hint at. [He is going, but turns 
back.l But you — nothing rash. Nothing headstrong! 
Mind! 

PATRICIA 

[Lost in thought.l No: I'll think it out: I'll think 
it out. 

o'rafferty 

Think of the house-martin that fell out of its nest. I 
cannot climb roofs to put you back. There, there ! [He 
puts his hands on her head.] God's blessing on you, 
acushla ! 

[Patricia crosses herself.] 

[He wipes his eyes.] Well, well? 

[Exit.] 
[Patricia ■waits a moment; then turns excitedly to Moyra 

•who is sobbing.] 

-C 23 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

Moyra ! How much money's in the stocking? 

MOYRA 

Glory be to God, what's in the wind now ? 

PATRICIA 

[Shakes her — laughing.] Oh, you — you Irish- 
woman! — will you answer a question? 

MOYRA 

Sure 'tis an elegant kiahtha of goold. 

PATRICIA 

Show me the stocking, woman, show it ! 

MOYRA 

'Tis under the flure. [She comes from the fire, ladle 
in hand to the centre of the room, where she kneels and 
begins prising the board up xvith the handle of the ladle.^ 

PATRICIA 

I know it. I want to see it! [To herself, rapt.'\ 
London's not at the world's end. [She kneels.] 

MOYRA 

Don't fooster me. Wait till I get the board up, bad 
cess to it. 

-C 24 > 



ACT I 

[MoYRA lifts the board up and produces a stocking foot, 
filled with gold and tied with a piece of twine.^ 

MOYRA 

[Holding up the stocking foot.l Here 'tis. As your 
sainted mother gave ut me. " For Patricia/' says she, 
with her dying breath; " for Patricia, when she comes to 
need it." 

PATRICIA 

And I need it now ! Tell me how much it is ! 

MOYRA 

A hundred and twenty goolden broadpieces. 

PATRICIA 

A hundred and twenty broadpieces? Why, that's a 
fortune ! But are you sure .'' 

MOYRA 

A hundred and twenty it was, when it was put there, 
and why for should it be less now.^ 

PATRICIA 

Count it ! Count it ! No ! Let me ! Turn it out ! 
[MoYRA turns out the gold on the floor; Patricia counts 
feverishly.'] 

PATRICIA 

Sh ! Softly ! Five — ten — fifteen — twenty — 
(The Scene Changes) 

-C 25 :^ 



MAVOURNEEN 



SCENE II 



[The picturesque, galleried courtyard of the Bear Inn, 
Drury Lane. The great gate is at the hack, and the 
street is visible beyond it. Entrance to the stable 
on the left; entrance to the house on the right. 
Under the galleries are rough tables, stools and bar- 
rels.] 

[^ Maid is airing a counterpane on the balcony. Mon- 
tagu is leaning over the balcony. The Drawer is 
polishing a table.'] 
[The Host comes out of the house doer on the right.] 

HOST 

Lively now. There's been a battle at the cockpit, and 
the quality will be here anon, clamouring for wine. 

DRAWER 

Ay, ay, Lord Berkeley, Lord Ashley, Lord Bristol — 

HOST 

[With emphasis.] And the Duke of Buckingham! 

DRAWER 

The tan gets in their throats. They'll have a pretty 
thirst on 'em — 

[Shouting without and a mob passes at the back.'] 
-C 26 > 



ACT I 

HOST 

There ! 'Tis out ! God send us no rabble. 
[Enter at the back Buckingham, Buistol, Ashley and 
Berkeley.] 

DRAWER 

[Up Z.] The rabble know the Bear in Drury Lane is 
a house for their betters. 

host 
[Seeing Buckingham.] The Duke himself! 
[The Host meets the gentlemen obsequiously. '\ 

BUCKINGHAM 

[To Bristol.] Fairly won, Bristol; your red dun 
didn't know when he was beaten. 

BRISTOL 

Ay, Gad, Buckingham ; yet your Shropshire red was a 
good bird. 

BERKELEY 

[Entering arm in arm with Ashley.] Oh, Ashley, 
how much more profitable is a good cock fight than a 
beastly theatre ! 

BRISTOL 

Why tell us what we all know, Berkeley ? 
-C 27 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

BUCKINGHAM 

Come, you bubbling rogues, what shall we wash the 
dust away with ? Rhenish ? 

ASHLEY 

Foh! Too sour on the stomach. 

BUCKINGHAM 

Hippocras then? 

BRISTOL 

Ay: claret and spice, and all things nice, in one glori- 
ous gurgle ! 

BUCKINGHAM 

D'ye hear, Host? 

HOST 

At once, my lord. 

[He runs into the Jnre.] 

BERKELEY 

Ay — ay — Your cockfights are all very well, but they 
lack the essential. 

ASHLEY 

Mention it. 

BERKELEY 

Woman, 

-C 28 :). 



ACT I 

BUCKINGHAM 

^ Han't you had your fill of her, Charles ? 
[Host and Drawer bring wine.l 

ASHLEY 

Not he ; for like a good retriever, he don't hunt for him- 
self, but for his master. 

BERKELEY 

[Stiffly.] I trust you are jesting, Anthony. 

BRISTOL 

Ah ! here's the liquor ! 

ASHLEY 

[To Berkeley.] Look not so glum for a little rail- 
lery, Charles. And here's the twenty pieces your bird 
won. \^He spreads them on table.'\ 

BERKELEY 

[Pocketing the money.] At that rate you can jest all 
night. 

BUCKINGHAM 

[Raising his cup."] The King! 
[All remove their hats.] 
And destruction to his enemies ! 
[They light long clay pipes at a small lantern which the 
Host has brought.] 

-C 29 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

BRISTOL 

[Laughing. 1 Faith, that's drinking to him and against 
him in one draught, for poor Rowley is his own worst 
enemy. 

BUCKINGHAM 

I meant the Dutch, George. 

BRISTOL 

Well, and they'd not be his enemies, but for his folly 
in marrying the Portugal woman. 
[Enter Sidney Montagu frojii the house. He stands 

and listens.^ 

ASHLEY 

Ay, they fear the Papists, 

BRISTOL 

That marriage has brought him foes nearer home than 
the Dutch. 

BUCKINGHAM 

[Laughing.'] Ay. Every woman he has ever loved 
thirsts for his blood, 

BERKELEY 

And chiefest, Babs Castlemaine. 

MONTAGU 

Gentlemen — 
[They all turn.'] 

-C 30 > 



ACT I 

BUCKINGHAM 

Young Sidney Montagu ! Well met ! 

MONTAGU 

The Countess of Castlemaine honours me with her 
friendship — 

BRISTOL 

Already? 

MONTAGU 

And I hope no one here will say ought against her. 

BERKELEY 

Contrariwise ! We have reason to speak well of her. 

ASHLEY 

The very best reason, 

BUCKINGHAM 

In token whereof, we'll drink to the lady, 
[i/e declaims.^ 

Fair Castlemaine no grief shall know 

No peril o'er her hover ; 
For never a man can be her foe, 
Since every man's her lover ! 
l^All laugh. 1 

MONTAGU 

I am now to the court, gentlemen ; but I've lived where 
-C 31 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

women are reverenced, and where that reverence is en- 
forced with the sword. 

BUCKINGHAM 

[Rises and places his hand familiarly on Montagu's 
shoulder.] Sit and drink, boy, and don't show so much 
plaguey, crop-eared virtue. 'Tis out of mode, now 
Charles has come into his own again. 

MONTAGU 

If I took you too gravely 'tis that I am in a grave 
humour, and so I wish you a good day. 
[There is a commotion at the great gate.] 

BERKELEY 

The Castlemaine herself, by all that's prodigious. 
[To Montagu.] Now you can't go ! 

MONTAGU 

[Laughing.] I will stay, to hear what you say to her 
face. 

BERKELEY 

No worse than we say behind her back, I warrant you, 
[Lady Castlemaine's chair is brought in. Ashley hur- 
ries to open it. Lady Roberts and Lady Myddleton 
follow. The ladies carry their masks in their hands 
and hold them to their faces as they enter the Inn- 
yard.] 

< 32 y 



ACT I 

ASHLEY 

[Helping Lady Castlemaine out of her chair. '\ My 
Lady Castlemaine — ! 

castlemaine 
Ashley ! Egad, ladies, we're in luck. 

BRISTOL 

[With a mock bow.'\ Queen of Hearts. 

BERKELEY 

Queen of Beauty ! 

BUCKINGHAM 

Astrea and her Nymphs. 
[The ladies curtsey.] 

CASTLEMAINE 

More fine speeches than ever I heard in a pot-house 
before. 

MYDDLETON 

Oh, Barbara, you'll not go into an inn! 

CASTLEMAINE 

Where else should I go when I'm thirsty? 

ROBERTS 

But there are men here. 

< 33 y 



^ MAVOURNEEN 

CASTL£MAIN£ 

Don't we know 'em? 

BRISTOL 

[Leading Myddleton and Roberts down to one of the 
tables.'] Nymphs and Dryads by the universe ! Come 
in fearlessly. The company's good; 'the hour propitious; 
and the wine — er — passable. 

CASTLEMAINE 

Thou ancient iniquity! [She sees Montagu tvho had 
retired under the gallery.] Who is that standing mum- 
chance ? 

BUCKINGHAM 

Oh, happy Montagu, her Grace of Castlemaine con- 
descends to ask who you are ! 

MONTAGU 

[Coming forward.] I dare not recall myself to her 
Grace's memory. 

CASTLEMAINE 

Faith! 'Tis the pretty fellow I met at supper last 
night. You may kiss my hand. 

MONTAGU 

[Doing so.] That your Grace should remember ! 
-C 34 > 



ACT I 

CASTLEMAINB 

Oh ! I have a good memory for young faces. 
[To Bristol.] 'Tis the old ones I am apt to forget. 
[To Montagu.] I desire your better acquaintance. 

BUCKINGHAM 

But what shall we wet these pretty lips with? Sher- 
ris sack? Rhenish? What you will? 

CASTLEMAINE 

[Taking up one of the cups and smelling it.'\ Hip- 
pocras ? Gad ! Hippocras for us — eh, Roberts ? 
[Buckingham instructs the Host, who fetches it with 

the Drawer.] 

ROBERTS 

No, faith, I couldn't ! Indeed and truly. 

ASHLEY 

[To Roberts.] Afraid to wash away the last kiss? 

ROBERTS 

Fie ! At least 'twas not yours. 

CASTLEMAINE 

Tush ! We're out for a frolic ; let's be natural. These 
are all proper fellows who tell no tales. Put thy blushes 
with thy pulvilic — and thou, too, Myddleton. Are we 
country hoydens ? 

-C 35 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

MYDDLETON 

[Laughing.'] Oh, Babs, and our reputations? 

CASTLEMAINE 

Why, Gad ! If we ran after our reputations, we should 
be out of breath 'ere we caught 'em ! 

BRISTOL 

And then you wouldn't know 'em again. 

CASTLEMAINE 

They'd be black enough if you'd touched 'em. 

BUCKINGHAM 

[Points to a stool by a small table.] Here, my Queen, 
is your throne and [attempting to sit next to her] I 
will be your slave ! 

CASTLEMAINE 

[Waving him aside.] No, no! [Indicates Montagu.] 
My prince shall sit here. 

BUCKINGHAM 

[When they are all seated.] And now; what brings 
you all to Drury Lane ? 

ASHLEY 

I warrant 'twas Love. 

-C 36 > 



ACT I 

CASTLEMAINB 

No. Lilly. 

ASHLEY 

Love and lilies ; a fair conj unction. 

CASTLEMAINE 

Lilly, the astrologer^ jackanapes. 

BRISTOL 

Gad! Have you had your horoscope cast? Did he 
find me in your fair hands ? 

CASTLEMAINE 

No. I had washed 'em. 

BRISTOL 

Cruel ! [Moves to the big table and sits in front of it."] 

CASTLEMAINE 

He was but a dull dog to-day. Could speak of nought 
but portents from the low countries. 

BUCKINGHAM 

Aha ! The Dutch anger at the King's marriage ? 

CASTLEMAINE 

Oh, Gad! The Portugal woman! As if she could 
move the stars ! 

-C 37 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

BUCKINGHAM 

Well — she's put your nose out of joint, pretty Babs! 

MONTAGU 

llndignantly.l My lord — ! 

BUCKINGHAM 

Ay, I forgot. [To Castlemaine.] Here's a new 
champion for you. He's for slitting our livers whenever 
we speak of you. 

castlemaine 
Why.'' Do ye speak so ill? 

ASHLEY 

Contrariwise. He thought we spoke too well. 

CASTLEMAINE 

[To Montagu.] I thank you, sir. But you must 
never take Buckingham more seriously than he takes him- 
self. He's made a jest of life, and he'll die on the point 
of it. [Berkeley laughs.'] As for Berkeley — who 
minds a candlestick? 

BERKELEY 

[Rising.] A candlestick, madam? 

CASTLEMAINE 

Does not a candlestick hold the candle? 
•C 38 > 



ACT I 

BUCKINGHAM 

We'd best hold our tongues when Babs' is wagging; 
for 'tis brisk. 

BERKELEY 

And poisoned. 

CASTLEMAINE 

I fight with whatever weapons are used against me. 

MONTAGU 

In a right cause. 

CASTLEMAINE 

You are new to the court, sir? 

MONTAGU 

To the court of England, ay. Madam. I am lately 
from France. 

CASTLEMAINE 

You must not believe the worst my friends say of me. 

MONTAGU 

Whoever sees you, believes what he sees, and loves 
what he believes. 

BUCKINGHAM 

£7^0 Berkeley.] Gad! We're too many here! 
-C 39 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

CASTLEMAINE 

Very prettily put, and it were well if these barbarians 
had a little of your gallantry. 

BRISTOL 

Yoj do well to be kind to him, now that you have 
leisure from court. 

CASTLEMAINE 

Oh, venerable George, you shall see me at court again^ 
ere the week's out. 

BERKELEY 

If I see that I'll eat my hat. 

CASTLEMAINE 

You shall not only see it, but bring it about — Sir 
Pandarus. 

BERKELEY 

[Indignantly. ] Madam — ! 

CASTLEMAINE 

[Contemptuously. 1 Did I call you out of your name? 
[To Montagu.] You and I must grow better ac- 
quainted. 

MONTAGU 

I am your servant always. 

-C 40 > 



ACT I 

CASTLEMAINE 

Wait on me at supper to-night. I shall be alone. 

MONTAGU 

I would 'twere sunset! 

ROBERTS 

Egad, Babs takes the shortest cut ! 

MYDDLETON 

Surrenders ere she be summoned. 

ROBERTS 

And takes the besieger captive. 

BUCKINGHAM 

Foregad, we must toast the lovers ! \_Cup in hand.'] 
Here's to the fortunate twain. 

MONTAGU 

\^Laughing.1 Oh, have your jest. We'll not listen. 

BRISTOL 

[Rises.] Omnia vincit amor! Love softens the fire- 
eater. 

BUCKINGHAM 

An epithalamium ! Silence! Silence! 

-C 41 y 



MAVOURNEEN 

Chaste moon — 'tis broad daylight,, but I claim poetic 
licence — 

Chaste moon, pale sovereign of the night. 
Look down with favour on thy votaries, 

Who celebrate the nuptial rite 

Without a priest, or church, or notaries. 

[^Laughter and applause. Meanwhile Mr. and Mrs. 
Pepys have entered, arm in arm, at the hack, followed 
by Mercer.] 

PEPYS 

[To his •wife.'] Company, Elizabeth. We'll go else- 
where. 

MRS. PEPYS 

La, they won't eat us ! Let us see life. 

BUCKINGHAM 

[Seeing them.] What! My good friend. Master 
Samuel Pepys — ! 

PEPYS 

[Stiffly.] Your servant, my lord! Come, Elizabeth. 

BUCKINGHAM 

No, no, Master Secretary. If you've found a treasure, 
let us share your good fortune. 

PEPYS 

[Severely.] My wife. 

-C 42 > 



ACT I 

BUCKINGHAM 

Present me to virtue then ; for 'tis plaguey scarce. 

PEPYS 

[Unwillingly.^ His Grace the Duke of Buckingham. 
[Buckingham bows. Pepys tries to lead his wife away. 
Ashley stops them, and then Berkeley.] 

THE other men 

[^Except Montagu.] And me! and me! 

PEPYS 

[To Elizabeth.] I'll never take you abroad again. 
Sir Charles Berkeley, Lord Ashley, Lord Bristol — 
[Montagu has men.] 

MONTAGU 

Sidney Montagu, at your service. 

PEPYS 

Sir Sidney — 

MONTAGU 

[Laughing .'\ No, no. Plain ensign. 

CASTLEMAINE 

Are you forgetful of old friends, Mr. Pepys? 
-C 43 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

PEPYS 

[To himself.} Oh, curse it! [^Clumsily.'\ Madam, 
I had not dared — 

CASTLEMAINE 

Present your wife. 

PEPYS 

She is but a simple soul, your Grace. 

MRS. PEPYS 

[Taking off her mask.'] La, Samuel — 

CASTLEMAINE 

A damned pretty soul, though. [To her, very gra- 
ciously.} I am Babs Castlemaine, and these are my 
friends, Mrs. Myddleton and Mrs. Roberts. 
[Elaborate curtseys. The women take Mrs. Pepys 

apart.} 

PEPYS 

[Furious.} The devil take the woman! 

BUCKINGHAM 

[Enjoying his discomfort.} What's the matter, Mr. 
Pepys ? Are you proud of the honour shown your pretty 
wife? 

PEPYS 

Too much honour — too much honour. 
-C 44 > 



ACT I 

BERKELEY 

And where do you hail from now? 

PEPYS 

The King's theatre, Sir Charles. 

BERKELEY 

What was played? 

PEPYS 

[Contemptuously.'] Oh, Hamlet, of Shakespeare. I 
had hoped for Polichinello, but they changed the bill after 
we had paid. 

BRISTOL 

Well done? 

PEPY8 

Too well, sir. It was all set out in scenes as if it had 
been an Italian opera. Lord ! the expense they go to now. 
Not in the spirit of Shakespeare, sir! They used not 
these excesses when I was a boy. 

BERKELEY 

But a fine play, what? 

PEPYS 

'Tis the fashion to say so. But were't not for the 
acting of Betterton as the Danish Prince, 'twould be but 
a poor thing. [He imitates Betterton.] " Unhand 
-C 45 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

me, gentlemen. By heaven, I'll make a ghost of him who 
lets me. Lead on, I'll follow ! " 

[The men applaud. The ladies laugh.J^ 

Ah, Betterton's a great man ! 

BRISTOL 

Ay, but Shakespeare — 

PEPYS 

[Confidentially, to Buckingham.] And who should 
we see come upon the stage but my wife's late woman, 
Gosnell. A pretty creature; I vow. But look at the 
favouritism of your theatrical folk! Though she hath as 
tuneful a voice and as straight a leg as any of them — 

BUCKINGHAM 

Experto Credo! 

PEPYS 

[With a glance at his wife.'] Mum, sir ! — Well, not a 
song would they give her, nor a dance. 

ASHLEY 

Too bad ! They are afraid of her. 

PEPYS 

So I told her. For I went to her tiring room — 

ASHLEY 

Dog! 

-C 46 > 



ACT I 

PEPY9 

[Sanctimoniously.] But, Lord! To see the paint 
and powder, and to hear the way the saucy wenches talk, 
do make a man grieve ! * 

CASTLEMAINE 

[Comes down with Mrs. Pepys.] Mr. Secretary, why 
have you never brought this fair creature to court? 

PEPYS 

Hum — we are plain folk, your Grace. 

CASTLEMAINE 

[To Mrs. Pepys.] Faith, you shall come under my 
wing. 

MRS. pepys 

La ! Samuel would never let me. 

CASTLEMAINE 

Ay ; and you shall dance a coranto before Charles him- 
self. 

PEPYS 

[Crossly.] She doesn't dance. 

CASTLEMAINE 

Oh, foh ! [To Mrs. Pepys.] I'll put you in the way 
of the best dancing-master in town. 

* Pepys's Diary. 

< 47 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

PEPYS 

[Takes his wife's arm.] Come, Elizabeth, 'tis high 
time we went home. Footpads are abroad. 

MRS. PEPYS 

La, Samuel, 'tis seldom enough I see company. 

BUCKINGHAM 

[Takes Pepys by the arm.] Nonsense, Master Sec- 
retary ! You have not drank yet ! 

PEPYS 

Sir! I have vowed not to touch wine till Christmas. 

BUCKINGHAM 

[Holding a cup under his nose.] A draught of Hip- 
pocras, though ! 

PEPYS 

Hum — a mixed compound drink, and therefore not 
any wine. Well, God forgive me. [Takes the cup.] 
The King ! [He lifts his hat.] 

ASHLEY 

[To Mrs. Pepys while Pepys is drinking.] When 
may one see this paragon again? [He takes her hand.] 

MRS. PEPYS 

La, sir; ask my husband. 

< 48 > 



ACT I 

ASHLEY 

[Laughing.l Egad, no! That's not the idea! 

[A rabble of street-boys runs on laughing and shout- 
ing. Enter Patricia on horseback, at the back. She 
is dressed as a young man, and cuts a gallant figure. 
She is travel-stained, and the horse is woebegone.'\ 

[Bristol comes forward. The landlord comes out of the 
Inn door."] 

BERKELEY 

Oho! More company! 

BRISTOL 

Something from the shires. 

PATRICIA 

[With a swagger. '\ House! House! What, House! 
[To Bristol, "who is laughing at her.^ Are you the 
landlord ? 

BRISTOL 

IFurious.'] I am not, sir! 

PATRICIA 

Well — fetch him. [She dismounts."] 



Here, your worship. 



HOST 



-C 49 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

Your best room; your best supper. [To the Drawer.] 
And you, fellow, look well after this good beast. 
[The Drawer leads the horse off into the stable.'] 

BUCKINGHAM 

[To his group, who are watching amused.] The Duke 
of Turnitops, I warrant. 

HOST 

[Indicates the entrance to the Inn.] Will your wor- 
ship step this way ? 

PATRICIA 

Not I, faith. I'll sup out o' doors. 'Tis as much as I 
can do to breathe at all in this foul city of yours. 
[Points to the small table.] Lay supper here. 

HOST 

[Deprecatingly.] The quality, sir — 

PATRICIA 

Do as I bid you, or I seek another house. Presto. 
[She sits on the bench behind the table.] 

CASTLEMAINE 

A vastly personable boy ! 

MONTAGU 

[Jealous at once.] An impudent puppy! 
-C 50 > 



ACT I 

BUCKINGHAM 

We'll roast him. 
[The maid brings food for Patricia^ who at once 
falls to.] 

HOST 

And what will your honour please to drink? 

PATRICIA 

Clear spring water, if such a thing's to be had. 

HOST 

'Tis to be had, but gentlemen never call for it. 

PATRICIA 

I have called for it. Get it! 

[The Host shrugs his shoulders contemptuously and 
exit.] 

[Buckingham comes to Patricia who is eating raven- 
ously.] 

BUCKINGHAM 

[With mock civility.] Young gentleman — 

PATRICIA 

[With her mouth full, not looking up.] Servant. 

BUCKINGHAM 

No doubt your worship's honour is newly from foreign 
parts ? 

-C 51 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

[As before.] No doubt. 

BUCKINGHAM 

And your worship's honour, judging by your honour's 
worship's horse, is a person of great consequence? 

PATRICIA 

Ye're a young man of some perspicacity. I am that. 
As for the horse, I'm glad you like him, for I want to sell 
him. 

BRISTOL 

Faith ! If you throw in the saddle, I'll offer — a 
sliilling. 

PATRICIA 

[Eyeing him up and down.] And where will you 
borrow the shilling? 

CASTLEMAINE 

\With a laugh.] Take that, Bristol. 

ASHLEY 

[Coming to Patricia.] No doubt your worship has 
important business at court ? 

PATRICIA 

[Eating, unperturbed.] I have so. 
-C 52 > 



ACT I 

ASHLEY 

And may we know what it is ? 

PATRICIA 

My own. 

CASTLEMAINE 

Checkmate, Ashley. [To Montagu.] I vow to Gad, 
a pretty wit. 

MYDDLETON 

I love his rosy cheeks. 

ROBERTS 

And his bright eyes, then! 

MONTAGU 

[Furious; swaggers up to Patricia.] Do you think 
it is good taste to thrust yourself thus amongst gentlemen 
who do not desire your company? 

PATRICIA 

[Looks up for the first time; gazes straight into his 
face; speaks with the utmost amiability.'] Young gentle- 
man, let me assure you, they cannot desire mine less than 
I theirs. 

[Montagu leaves her with an angry gesture."] 
-C 53 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

BERKELEY 

[To Patricia.] Young sprig, let me give you good 
advice — 

PATRICIA 

^Resuming her meal.'\ If you can spare it. 

BERKELEY 

Learn to address your betters with more respect. 

PATRICIA 

Sure an' I will, when I find 'em. 

BUCKINGHAM 

Oh, leave the dull dog. 

ASHLEY 

Ay, we're neglecting Venus. [To Mrs. Pepys.] A 
word — [He takes her apart.'\ 

PEPYS 

[Calls.'] Mercer! 

MERCER 

[Comes forward.] Ay, sir. 

PEPYS 

Bid your mistress make ready for home at once, good 
wench. 

-C 54 > 



ACT I 

MERCER 

His Lordship is talking to her. 

PEPYS 

Damn it, Mercer, that's why. [As Mercer turns to 
go.l Mercer. [She turns back; he looks cautiously 
round, then pinches her cheek.] That's all — at present. 
[Mercer goes up to Mrs. Pepys and Ashley.] 

MONTAGU 

[jTo Lady Castlemaine.] So then, to-night — 
[Lady Castlemaine is watching Patricia and trying to 
attract her attention.] 

castlemaine 
[Indifferently.] To-night? — O, ay; we'll speak of it 
again. 

[She crosses to Patricia, leaving Montagu furious.^ 

castlemaine 
[Leaning over Patricia's table.] I like your looks, 
young gentleman. 

PATRICIA 

[Eating.] I would have said the same to you, had 
you given me time. 

castlemaine 
Will you make room for me on your bench? 
< 55 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

[^Continuing her meal.} Oh, as much as you like. 

CASTLEMAINE 

Nay — not too much. [She sits beside Patricia.] 
You must take no heed of these giddy lords. 

PATRICIA 

Are they lords } Look at that, now ! Drinking in an 
ale-house. 

CASTLEMAINE 

Now, you and I must be friends. 

PATRICIA 

Willingly. What is your name? 

CASTLEMAINE 

[Laughing.'] You go straight to the matter ! 

PATRICIA 

'Tis the nearest way. 

CASTLEMAINE 

Rogue ! Do you always take that? 

PATRICIA 

Sure, if I want to get anywhere. 
-C 56 > 



ACT I 

CASTLEMAINE 

[Tapping Patricia's fingers.] Fie! You are a dan- 
gerous boy. 

PATRICIA 

[Honestly amazed.] Dangerous? How? 

CASTLEMAINE 

Oh, I know — and so do you. But you asked my 
name. 

PATRICIA 

An hour ago. 

CASTLEMAINE 

[Watching him.] I am the Countess of Castlemaine. 

PATRICIA 

[Drinking: speaks into her cup — unimpressed.] 

Yes? 

CASTLEMAINE 

[With a slight hesitation.] Have you never heard of 
me? 

PATRICIA 

Sorrow a thing. [Thinks that rather rude, and looks 
at her ingratiatingly.] But now I shall never forget you. 

CASTLEMAINE 

Prettily answered. And how smooth the rogue's cheek 
is. [She strokes it.] And what is your name? 
-C 57 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

Patri — ICoughs.l Patrick — Patrick O'Brien — 
your servant. 

CASTLEMAINE 

Patrick shall be my servant, if he will. [Moves 
closer. 1 You would not tell those sparks your errand; 
will you tell me .'' 

PATRICIA 

Gladly. I am come out of Ireland to seek my fortune 
at court. 

CASTLEMAINE 

And I will see that you find it. 

PATRICIA 

[Not at all grateful.] Thank you; but my ambition 
was to serve the Queen. 

CASTLEMAINE 

Foh! The Portugal woman would only hinder your 
fortune. I can make you. 

PATRICIA 

[Puzzled.] How is that possible? ^ 

CASTLEMAINE 

[Laughing.] You shall see ! [She rises and turns to 
the others.] Buckingham, here is a young gentleman 
who, by his merits, should go far. 
-C 58 > 



ACT I 

BUCKINGHAM 

I doubt not that with your guidance he'll go farther 
than he dreams of. 

MONTAGU 

[Who has been watching Castlemaine with increasing 
jealousy, to Patricia.] An Irish fortune hunter, I per- 
ceive. 

[All scenting a quarrel, become attentive.'] 

PATRICIA 

Do we hunt in couples, sir ? 

MONTAGU 

Are you as ready with your sword as with your tongue ? 

PATRICIA 

[Calmly, still seated.] Oh ! much readier ! 

MRS. PEPYS 

[To Fepys — frightened.] La! Samuel! 

MONTAGU 

[Drawing his sword.] Out with it, then ! 

CASTLEMAINE 

[Protecting Fatricia.] Ruffian! Draw, in the pres- 
ence of ladies against a stripling ! 
-C 59 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

MONTAGU 

[Sulkily.'] Very well, Madam! [To Patricia.] 
You shall escape nothing by hiding behind a petticoat. 
[Drum's and shouts in the distance.] 

PATRICIA 

[Jumping to her feet.] Begorra! [Banging the 
table.] Hiding behind a petticoat is what I'm not doing 
just! And I'm ready when you are! [She drams.] 

MONTAGU 

[Speechless.] When I am! 
[They fight.] 

MIDDLETON 

[Near the gate.] Hark! A commotion in the street! 
[Trumpets sound. Halberdiers are seen running past. 
Stones fly.] 

HOST 

The Queen! The Queen! Stop the fight! 
[Cries " Down with the Papists." The fight is inter- 
rupted.] 

BERKELEY 

There is nothing to fear. 'Tis only the Queen with 
the customary rabble at her heels. 

PATRICIA 

The Queen ! In danger ? 

-c 60 :}. 



ACT I 

BERKELEY 

Faith ! I'll not risk my skin for her. 

PATRICIA 

For shame ! Mr. Montagu, since you thirst for blood, 
will you fight for tlie Queen? 

MONTAGU 

Foregad, yes ! 

[They hurry up to the gate and fight the 7no6.] 
[The Queen's chair appears at the gate. Portuguese 
gentlemen are at her side with dratvn swords, keeping 
off the mob who press on her. The chair is hurriedly 
brought into the courtyard. Portuguese Lords and 
Ladies enter. The Ladies sink fainting into chairs. 
The Lords attend them. As soon as the chair is in the 
■courtyard The Queen jumps out."} 

THE queen 
[With a strong Portuguese accent.] Here! Ah! 
Gracas a Deus. Here are friends ! [She finds herself 
face to face with Castlemaine — she shrinks away.] 
Oh! 

castlemaine 
[With a mock curtsey; insolently.'] Your usual tri- 
umph, Majesty? 

[Patricia and Montagu have driven the mob off.] 
-C 61 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

l^Sivaggering.^ That's done. 

THE QUEEN 

I thank you, young gentleman. 

PATRICIA 

[^Sheathing her sword.'\ 'Twas nothing. Madam. 
You saw how the rogues ran ! 

THE QUEEN 

You shall come with me to the King ; he shall hear 'ow 
you 'ave been ver' brave, ver' generous. [iVith a look 
at Buckingham and the rest.'\ Ah, Senhor, you are the 
iirst Englishman 'oo 'as shampioned me. 

PATRICIA 

I'm not an Englishman, your Majesty, I'm an Irish- 
man. [5/ie takes off her hat, with a magnificent bow; 
her glorious hair falls all about her.^ And a faymale at 
that! 

[Stupefaction.'] 

[Patricia kneels and kisses The Queen's hand.] 

HALF THE ONLOOKERS 

\_To Castlemaine, laughing.'] Oh, Babs, Babs! 

THE OTHER HALF 

[To Montagu.] Oh, Montagu ! 

THE curtain falls 

-C 62 > 



ACT II 



ACT II 

A Hall in Whitehall. At the back an arched opening up 
two steps, giving access to a transverse corridor. On 
the right, in the centre of the wall, a beautiful carved 
fireplace; on the mantelshelf a monumental clock in 
ormolu, above it the Vandyke portrait of Charles I. 
Below the fireplace are two tall windows and above 
it two similar windows, these look out on the Thames. 
On the left, a small door. In a corner stands an easel, 
on which is an unfinished portrait of Charles II. An 
artist [in court dressi is at work on it. Round the 
walls are gilt tables, stools and chairs. The room is 
lighted by sconces against the xvalls and by a beautiful 
Venetian glass chandelier hanging in the centre. 
These all carry long thin candles of unbleached wax. 

The candles in the sconces are unlighted, the chandelier 
is lighted. 

As the curtain rises, Chiffinch^ a small man in a black 
suit, comes out of door L. backwards bowing low, and 
speaking into the inner room. 

< es y 



MAVOURNEEN 

CHIFFINCH 

His Majesty will be here anon, my Lord, {^He closes 
the door and crosses the hall, towards the fireplace.^ 
But His Majesty's not here, and 'tis seven o' the clock! 

AN USHER 

[On the step under the arch.] Mr. Samuel Pepys. 
[Enter Pepys down the stejys. He carries a leather 
folio, crammed with papers.] 

CHIFFINCH 

[Meeting him.] Ah! By appointment, I think? 
[He holds out his hands.] 

PEPYS 

[Putting his hands behind him; coldly.] By the 
King's Gracious command, Mr. Chiffinch. 

CHIFFINCH 

Ay. [Indicating the small door.] Lord Clarendon is 
already in attendance. 

PEPYS 

[Moving towards the door.] Then I will wait on 
Lord Clarendon. 

CHIFFINCH 

One moment. His lordship is to see the King alone. 
-C 66 > 



ACT II 

PEPYS 

[^Huffily.'] He is on the same business as I. 

CHIFFINCH 

My orders, Mr. Pepys. 

USHER 

Lord Arlington. 
[Enter Lord Arlington. He is a tall, thin man pre- 
ternaturally grave and solemn. He has a scar across 
his nose, covered by a black patch in the form of a 
lozenge.^ * 
[The artist bows to Arlington and exit C] 

ARLINGTON 

[To Pepys.] Ah, Mr. Secretary — 

[He bows elaborately. Pepys returns the salute."] 

No ill news, I trust ? 

pepys 
Of serious consequence, my Lord. 

ARLINGTON 

A pity it comes to-night, then; for his Majesty is pre- 
occupied with other matters. 

PEPYS 

[Hotly.] They cannot be more grave than this. 

* Grammont. 

-C 67 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

ARLINGTON 

[Severely. 1 That is for the King to judge, sir. 

USHER 

The King. 

[Enter King Charles II preceded and followed by 
grooms with lighted candelabra. The grooms remain 
in the corridor. The King comes down briskly to 

Arlington L. of him he looks for a moment at his 

picture, smiles and taps the artist approvingly on the 
shoidder. The artist exit.'\ 

[Pepys retires bowing low — the Usher moves back to 
his position."] 

CHARLES 

[To Arlington — confidentially.'] Well? Have you 
spoken with her ? 

ARLINGTON 

[Very gravely.] I have conveyed your Majesty's com- 
mands. She will wait on your Majesty. 

CHARLES 

A roguish eye and a tempting lip, eh? 

ARLINGTON 

Sire, you know I cannot see beyond one pair of 
eyes. 

-C 68 > 



ACT II 

CHARLES 

[Laughing.'] Ay! the faithful husband! Odds fish, 
man_, don't be so uxorious ! \_He sees Pepys.] Ah, Mr. 
Secretary ? 

PEPYS 

[Advancing, with low bows.] Grave news of the 
Dutch, sire. 

CHARLES 

Plague on 'em! I know, I know. [To Chiffinch.] 
Is Lord Clarendon here? 

CHIFFINCH 

[Indicating the small door.] Awaiting your pleasure, 
sire. 

CHARLES 

[To Arlington.] My pleasure! — [To Pepys.] 
Mr. Secretary, I have a few words for Clarendon in pri- 
vate. 

PEPYS 

Only one question, sire. 

CHARLES 

[Impatiently.'] Well? Well? But Clarendon will 
scold me for being late. 

PEPYS 

We shall need an emissary to Breda. Have I your 
gracious leave to send for Ensign Montagu? 
-C 69 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

CHARLES 

Is it a weighty matter? 

PEpys 
Very; but he hath an old head on young shoulders. 

CHARLES 

I love a young head on old shoulders — but send for 
him. 
[Pepys hows, goes up to the Usher and whispers; the 

Usher exit.'] 

CHARLES 

\Beclcons Arlington to him.] Harkee, when she 
comes, sound her; sound her; give her a little fatherly 
advice. 

ARLINGTON 

Your Majesty, I will warn her. 

CHARLES 

[Laughing.'] Warn her ! No, no, no ! 

ARLINGTON 

Warn her of the high fortune in store for her. 

CHARLES 

Ay, that's better. Yet cautiously. She's new and 
skittish. Play her, Arlington, play her — [With a sigh.] 
Well! Now for Clarendon. [To Pepys.] You shall 
-C 70 > 



ACT II 

come soon; for, to speak truly, I'm in haste to be rid of 

you both. 

[Charles exit, through the small door, Chiffinch going 
out backwards before him.^ 

[The footmen in the corridor exeunt with their can- 
delabra.^ 

[The Usher returns to his post, but is only seen inter- 
mittently.'\ 

PEPYS 

[To Arlington.] How is the Queen, my lord? 

ARLINGTON 

[Indifferently.'\ Oh, so, so; so, so. The climate, sir, 
is not in her favour. 

PEPYS 

Not gravely ill, I trust? 

ARLINGTON 

I trust not. But she would be better out of England. 

PEPYS 

Poor woman. [More confidentially.'] My lord, is it 
true the Countess of Castlemaine has been summoned to 
court again? 

ARLINGTON 

Certainly. 

-c 71 :> 



MAVOURNEEN 

PEPYS 

Then I don't wonder the Queen has took to her bed. 

ARLINGTON 

[Severely. 1 The Queen, sir, has many prudish preju- 
dices ; but my Lady Castlemaine's reign will be short this 
time. 

PEPYS 

Oh ! How do you mean ? 

ARLINGTON 

You are a man of discretion, Mr. Pepys. [Takes his 
arm confidentially.] There is a new beauty at court. 
If you wish yourself well, get into favour with her; for 
in a month's time — but I say no more. 

PEPYS 

I could wish the King more constancy. 

ARLINGTON 

Impossible. The Queen? A blackamoor, and in ill 
health. Castlemaine .'' Satiety, sir. Satiety kills love. 

PEPYS 

[Laughing.] 'Tis fortunate you do not practise as you 
preach. 

ARLINGTON 

I, sir ? Do you know my wife .'' 

-C 72 :}. 



ACT II 

PEPYS 

I have not that advantage. 

ARLINGTON 

When you know her you will understand. Beauty in 
its full perfection, sir. Such hair ! Such eyes ! Such 
lips, ripe for kissing ! And such a figure ! I vow to gad, 
sir, — but I will not be more precise. 

PEPYS 

The true artist ever leaves something to the imagina- 
tion; but have you no moments of anxiety in a court so 
full of intriguing gallants .'' 

ARLINGTON 

Every one of 'em's perishing of love for her, and I am 
proud of it! But she and I laugh at 'em! And I am 
sly, sir; confounded sly. I nurse her love for me. 
How? With gifts at her altar. 'Tis a profound truth 
that gifts foster love. Only to-day — guess what I gave 
her to-day? 

PEPYS 

'Tis beyond me. 
A pair of stockings. 
Ah! 



ARLINGTON 



PEPYS 



< 73 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

ARLINGTON 

That sounds nothing. But a pair of green stockings ! 
A pair of green silk stockings! What do you think o' 
that? 

PEpys 

I think of it with — admiration. 

ARLINGTON 

And fit! My very dear friend, if you could only see 
how they fit ! 

[Enter Chiffinch.] 

CHIFFINCH 

Mr. Secretary, his Maj esty — 

PEPYS 

[To Arlington.] Faith, my lord, the green stockings 
had put the Dutch fleet out o' my head. 
[Exit followed by Chiffinch.] 
[The Usher enters announcing.'] 

usher 
Lady Patricia O'Brien! [Patricia appears on the 
steps.] 

ARLINGTON 

[With a superb bow, from where he stands.] Ah! 
So Venus appeared to ^neas ! 

-C 74 > 



ACT II 

PATRICIA 

Faith, a poor compliment, my lord, for she was his 
mother ! [She comes down.'\ 

ARLINGTON 

Ay; that's the laugh that has stirred somebody's heart. 

PATRICIA 

[Eagerly. 'I Who is " somebody," my lord? 

ARLINGTON 

Mum! For the moment he's occupied. Even Kings 
have their dull moments. There! I've said it! Clar- 
endon and Mr. Pepys are with him. Tedious stuff! 
Fleets; ammunition, provender; the Lord knows what! 
But, presently — ! Lilies, eh.? and Roses, what? 

PATRICIA 

And what can the King want with me at all? 

ARLINGTON 

Patience, patience. Chiffinch will fetch you anon. 

PATRICIA 

I don't like Chiffinch ; an oily little man. 

ARLINGTON 

Oh, tut, tut! You must like Chiffinch; Chiffinch can 
make you or mar you. 

-C 75 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

Thank you for nothing; I'm made already; I'm the 
Queen's woman, and I love her, and I am very happy. 

ARLINGTON 

Foh ! That's all nothing to what's coming. 

PATRICIA 

What do you mean? What's coming? 

ARLINGTON 

You'll see, you'll see. Now, stand still; let me look 
at you ? 

[He walks round her, examining her critically.'] 

PATRICIA 

[Turning with him.'] What is there to look at, at all? 

ARLINGTON 

Your dress. 

PATRICIA 

[Alarmed, lest the hooks be undone.] Ow! 

ARLINGTON 

I am an authority on dress. Have you seen my wife? 

PATRICIA 

Not that I know of. 

-C 76 > 



ACT II 

ARLINGTON 

Ah, you'd know, if you had. The loveliest woman in 
the world ! and 'tis I dress her. 

PATRICIA 

Has she no tiring-woman? 

ARLINGTON 

I mean I choose her materials, oversee the designs, 
combine the colours. Result: IKissing the tips of his 
fingers.] perfection! — You'll do; you'll do. Now, curt- 
sey. 

PATRICIA 

[Bobs a countrified curtsey.] Why for will I curtsey? 

ARLINGTON 

Ah? You don't know how ? Watch me. [Curtseys.] 
So. 1. 2. 3. 4. 

[Patricia bursts out laughing.] 
The newest mode. Copy that. 

PATRICIA 

I'll take it on trust. 

ARLINGTON 

No, no! Try it with me. [They curtsey to each 
other.] 

[Enter Chiffinch. He hursts out laughing.] 

:-c 77 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

CHIFFINCH 

My lord ! 
[Patricia goes up to the King's picture and practises the 
curtsey.^ 

ARLINGTON 

l^Ji^ith great dignity.] Mr. Chiffinch! 

CHIFFINCH 

The King, my Lord, commands you to him. 

ARLINGTON 

With this lady? 

CHIFFINCH 

No, not yet. Lord Clarendon and Mr. Pepys are 
plaguing the King out of his life. Some point has arisen 
which you can clear up. 

[Patricia, practising her curtsey, ends by sitting ab- 
ruptly on the floor. The two men hurry to pick her 
up.] 

ARLINGTON 

[To Patricia.] Careful! Careful! There! Prac- 
tise your curtsey; and practise a smile! 
[Patricia smiles ruefully and sits on a stool at the back 

of the stage.] 
[Arlington exit. Chiffinch is just following him, when 

enter Montagu hurriedly; he comes down rapidly.] 
-C 78 > 



ACT II 

MONTAGU 

[To Chiffinch.] You, there! The King has sent 
for me. Mr. Sidney Montagu. 

CHIFFINCH 

[Highly offended.'} I know nothing of you, sir. Wait, 
wait. 
lEait.'] 

MONTAGU 

[Raging. 1 A plague on antechambering and impudent 
menials. 

PATRICIA 

[Where she is sitting.] So say I just. 

MONTAGU 

[Turning sharply.'} I crave your pardon. Madam! I 
had not seen you. 
[Patricia rises, coming down sweeps him a magnificent 

curtsey.} 

PATRICIA 

Was that well done, Mr. Sidney Montagu? 

MONTAGU 

You know my name, Madam.'' Faith, you have the 
advantage of me ! 

PATRICIA 

Sure 'tis not the first time. 

-C 79 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

MONTAGU 

Have we met before ? 

PATRICIA 

Have you forgot the inn-yard a sennight since? 

MONTAGU 

Oh ! Were you with the Queen then ? In the to-do I 
must have — 

PATRICIA 

Overlooked me? 

MONTAGU 

Why, that is the fact of it, though, indeed, I must have 
been blind! 

PATRICIA 

Blind with anger, belike; for so you seemed. 

MONTAGU 

[Laughing.'] Faith, I had been made a fool of by an 
ugly little slip of a girl. If you'll believe me she had 
come riding in in man's clothes, and, thinking her a man, 
I had challenged her ! The minx ! 

PATRICIA 

[^Laughing.'] Do you challenge every man you see? 

MONTAGU 

Ay, if I like not his looks. 

< 80 >^ 



ACT II 

PATRICIA 

[Imitating herself as a 6o?/.] Well, Mr. Montagu, 
when are we to fight that duel ? 

MONTAGU 

We ? — Eh ? — what ! — It wasn't — it can't have 
been — ! Good Gad, was it you ? 

PATRICIA 

[Bowing like a boy.] At your service. 

MONTAGU 

You, the braggadocious, knock-knee'd — 

PATRICIA 

Ow! 

MONTAGU 

I mean, you, the boy ? No, no ! He was a foot taller. 

PATRICIA 

In boy's clothes. 

MONTAGU 

Well ! May I everlastingly — ! Then there is noth- 
ing for me, but to withdraw. [He moves to go.] 

PATRICIA 

[Quickly.] You are to wait for the King's summons. 
< 81 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

MONTAGU 

But I have offended you. 

PATRICIA 

You must not offend the King. 

MONTAGU 

Well — I — I crave pardon for addressing you ! It 
shall not occur again. 

PATRICIA 

Very well, sir. 

[.4 pause — Patricia breaks into a ripple of laughter.^ 



Did you speak .^ 

No, sir. 

You laughed? 

I did. 

Why? 

IProtest] Oh ! 



MONTAGU 



PATRICIA 



MONTAGU 



PATRICIA 



MONTAGU 



PATRICIA 



-C 82 > 



ACT II 

MONTAGU 

Because you've twice made me look a fool? 

PATRICIA 

Oh, what man doesn't look a fool every other day and 
none the worse for it ! 

MONTAGU 

Men don't like it. 

PATRICIA 

[Insidiously.} They who can't afford it; but you can. 

MONTAGU 

How so? 

PATRICIA 

[Demurely. "l Sure, with you 'tis exceptional. 

MONTAGU 

[Conquered.'] Ah ! You've kissed the Blarney-stone. 

PATRICIA 

Sorrow a kiss. Well? Am I forgiven? 

MONTAGU 

Forgiven — ! But I was not to address you. 

PATRICIA 

Oh, the mischief's done now, and you may as well go 
on. 

< S3 y 



MAVOURNEEN 

MONTAGU 

Well — er, — so now you are with the Queen? 

PATRICIA 

l^Who had hoped he was going to say something more 
interesting, stiffly.] I have that honour. 

MONTAGU 

[^Looking at her keenly, and speaking very warmly.] 
I rejoice ! Ah, I rejoice ! I thank Heaven ! 

PATRICIA 

[Amazed.] 'Tis vastly civil of you, but why do you 
speak so gravely? 

MONTAGU 

I feared — 

PATRICIA 

What did you fear? 

MONTAGU 

I feared — [He breaks off.] Lady Castlemaine 
seemed much took with you. 

PATRICIA 

Indeed, she was very gracious — 

MONTAGU 

Ay ; plaguey gracious. 

-C 84 > 



ACT II 

PATRICIA 

But I have not seen her since that day. 

MONTAGU 

[Relieved.] That's well. Oh, that's very good hear- 
ing! 

PATRICIA 

You puzzle me, sir; for you, yourself, seemed on the 
best of terms with that lady. 

MONTAGU 

I ! — um — I have not seen her since that day, neither. 

PATRICIA 

How strange ! Why not ? 

MONTAGU 

[With a tinge of bitterness and a look at the King's 
door.] Oh — she has been better occupied — she has 
come back to court. 

PATRICIA 

[Seriously.] Ay; and the Queen is vexed. Mr. Mon- 
tagu, why is the Queen vexed.'' 

MONTAGU 

Surely, Mistress — [He breaks off.] Why, I don't 
even know your name. 

-C 85 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

Patricia O'Brien, at your service. My father is Lord 
Belisle, 

MONTAGU 

l^With a bow.'} Lady Patricia, your very humble 
servant to command. [They exchange bows and curt- 
seys.} 

PATRICIA 

[Laughing.} Oh, that would have pleased Lord Ar- 
lington ! Why is the Queen vexed at Lady Castlemaine's 
presence ? 

MONTAGU 

How long have you been at court? 

PATRICIA 

I believe you're an Irishman, too ! You answer in 
questions. I've been at court a week. 

MONTAGU 

Then you know very well why the Queen's vexed. 

PATRICIA 

Sorrow a word. 

MONTAGU 

[After a looJc at her.} Well, it's not for me to tell you. 
-C 86 > 



ACT II 

PATRICIA 

I see you still bear me a grudge. I am sorry, for I 
need a friend. 

MONTAGU 

You! 

PATRICIA 

J. Mr. Montagu, was you ever in a nightmare ? 

MONTAGU 

Ay; for sins of gluttony and wine-bibbing. 

PATRICIA 

And in your dream did you see faces; tens and hun- 
dreds of faces, peering at you and leering at you; till you 
was chilled with horror; for, though they smiled, they 
were devil's faces all of 'em.'' 

MONTAGU 

Ah — ? Is that how Whitehall strikes you? 

PATRICIA 

No other way. 

MONTAGU 

Will you let me ask you one question.'' 

PATRICIA 

Well? 

-C 87 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

MONTAGU 

I fear 'tis impertinent. 

PATRICIA 

Sure I'll tell you if it is. 

MONTAGU 

Then, what are you doing here, alone, in the King's 
wing o' the palace .'' 

PATRICIA 

Kicking my heels and wondering. 

MONTAGU 

Forgive me if I insist. Wliy are you here? 

PATRICIA 

By my truly, I know no more than you. I was sent 
for. 

MONTAGU 

By—? 

PATRICIA 

By the King, 

MONTAGU 

Who brought the message? 

PATRICIA 

Lord Arlington. 

-C 88 > 



ACT II 

MONTAGU 

[An exclamation of anger.] Hah! 
[He strides to and fro excitedly.] 

PATRICIA 

Why do you say " Hah " ; and why do you take those 
great strides? 

MONTAGU 

Do you mean you don't know why you was sent for? 

PATRICIA 

Divil a bit. 

MONTAGU 

You can make no guess ? 

PATRICIA 

Divil a guess. 

MONTAGU 

Well, I know. 

PATRICIA 

[Eagerly.] Do you, now? — then tell me quickly. 

MONTAGU 

[After a hesitation.] I can't. 

PATRICIA 

[Astonished.] Why will you make a mystery of it? 
-C 89 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

MONTAGU 

[Bitterli/.'\ Oh, 'tis no mystery, save to yourself. 
Haven't the leerings and peerings put it into your head ? 
Hasn't Lord Arlington put it into your head? 

PATRICIA 

[Im'patiently.'] Put w/jaiinto my head? Speak plain 
English, man! 

MONTAGU 

Do you mean to say you know nothing of King Charles, 
nothing of Arlington, nothing of Chiffinch, nothing of the 
Court? 

PATRICIA 

How will I know anything of 'em? Wasn't I, all my 
life, at Castle O'Brien, which sounds fine, but is a cowlagh 
with four walls and half a roof on a rock by the sea, 
a world away from the world. By the same token, 
'twas because I knew nothing, and wanted to know all, I 
put on boy's clothes, and slipt away with my stocking - — 

MONTAGU 

What! 

PATRICIA 

— The one with the money in it — and sailed across the 
channel and bought a horse — you remember the horse ? 
— and rode to London town. 

< 90 >■ 



ACT II 

MONTAGU 

Will you have my counsel? 

PATRICIA 

And thank you kindly. 

MONTAGU 

Get back into your boy's clothes again, and ride back, 
and sail back, or swim back, to Castle O'Brien ; and thank 
God when you're under the half of a roof again. 

PATRICIA 

Oh! 

MONTAGU 

That's my counsel, though 'tis given against my own 
advantage. 

PATRICIA 

\^Comes up to him, coaxingly, with her hand on his 
arm.'] How is it against your advantage? 

MONTAGU 

[Avoiding her.] Never mind that. Perhaps it isn't. 

PATRICIA 

{Breaking away.] I tell you what, Mr. Montagu; 
you're a vexing person. You talk like everybody else 
here, with a meaning at the back of your words that 
-C 91 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

doesn't show through. You're in a mighty hurry to be 
rid of me, and 'tisn't for your advantage and 'tis for your 
advantage, and what am I to make of you, at all, at all? 

MONTAGU 

Are you willing to take my counsel? 

PATRICIA 

Is it likely? 

MONTAGU 

You will not? 

PATRICIA 

Not I! I love the Queen. The Queen, poor soul, 
seems to love me, and 'tis few enough she has to love in 
this heretic land. 

MONTAGU 

lEagerly.l Are you of her faith? 

PATRICIA 

What else would I be? 

MONTAGU 

So am I. 

PATRICIA 

Of course you are. 

MONTAGU 

And you're going through with this mad adventure? 
-C 92 > 



ACT II 

PATRICIA 

I am, so. Why, man, don't you see what a frolic 'tis ? 

MONTAGU 

Frolic ! You have no fear ? 

PATRICIA 

Fear, is it? Oh, whirra have I sailed the stormy seas 
in a nutshell, have I rode unbroken Galway ponies over 
stone walls, have I been out o' nights on lonely moors 
when the spirits of the dead wailed around my ears, and 
will I be afraid of anything in Whitehall? 

MONTAGU 

l^With admiration.'] Hah! — well — will you let me 
be your friend. Lady Patricia? 

PATRICIA 

'Tis what I ask for, and my friends call me Pat. 

MONTAGU 

Here's my hand, Pat ! 

PATRICIA 

[Grippijig his hand.] And here's mine, with my heart 
in it! 

MONTAGU 

[Eagerly.] Your heart — ? 
[He half draws her to him.] 

-C 93 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

[Enter Lady Castlemaine. Patricia and Montagu 
separate. From now onwards groups of ladies and 
gentlemen pass and re-pass along the corridor.] 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

[Laugliing.l A very pretty picture, Mr. Sidney Mon- 
tagu! [She turns to F ATRiciA.I Ah? The boy-girl on 
the horse of t'other night. 

MONTAGU 

[Stiffly.'] Lady Patricia O'Brien — 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

[JVith an exaggerated curtsey.] Your servant. But 

I'll not interrupt yon. I'm for tlie King. 

[She crosses totvards the King's door. Chiffinch ap- 
pears, barring her tvay.] 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

Make way, Chiffinch. 

CHIFFINCH 

[Warding her off.] His Majesty is in council. 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

What of it? Stand aside. 

CHIFFINCH 

You must be pleased to wait. When the council 
-C 94 > 



ACT II 

rises the King has commanded Lady Patricia to attend 
him. Forgive me. 

^Exit, closing the door in Castlemaine's face.] 
[Castlemaine stands nonplussed a moment; then turns 

to Patricia.] 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

[Insolently.] You ride fast, young mistress. 

PATRICIA 

^Good-naturedly.'] 'Tis the way with Irish maids. 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

Take care there be no stone in your path. 

PATRICIA 

Faith, and stone walls can't stop us ! 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

Impertinence! [To Montagu.] I have not seen you 
since a week. 

[Patricia turns sharply to listen.] 

MONTAGU 

[Very courteously.] You forbade me your house. 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

In a moment of pique. You shall squire me home to- 
night. 

-C 95 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

MONTAGU 

My time is the King's. 
[Patricia is delighted.'\ 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

111 tell you what, sir; neither I nor the King loves so 
solemn a face for our frolics. 

MONTAGU 

I am not bent on frolic, but on fighting. 

PATRICIA 

[Coming doitm eagerly.^ Fighting — ? What? 
Where? 

MONTAGU 

Why, the Hollanders mean business. 

PATRICIA 

War ! — Oh, how I envy you ! 

LADY CASTLEMAINE, 

[MochinglyJ] Why, don the breeches again, then, and 
ride to battle. 

PATRICIA 

Begob, I wish I could ! 
[Chiffinch appears."] 

< 96 > 



ACT II 

CHIFFINCH 

Mr. Sidney Montagu, the King calls for you. 

MONTAGU 

Lady Patricia, will you not retire? 

CHIFFINCH 

By no means. His Majesty particularly asked if she 
was waiting. 

PATRICIA 

[To Chiffinch.] Ay; and I take it uncivil of him 
to keep me waiting so long. 
[Castlemaine crosses to Chiffinch, Montagu goes 

hurriedly to Patricia.] 

lady castlemaine 
[To Chiffinch.] Did you say I was here."* 

MONTAGU 

[To Patricia.] I hate leaving you with her. 

CHIFFINCH 

[To Castlemaine.] I did. 

PATRICIA 

[To Montagu.] Why? 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

[To Chiffinch.] Well? What did he answer? 
-C 97 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

MONTAGU 

[To Patricia, with a look at Castlemaine.] Oh! I 
cannot say why. 

CHIFFINCH 

[To Castlemaine.] He did not answer. He 
shrugged his shoulders. Now, Mr. Montagu. 

MONTAGU 

[To him.] Ay, ay! 

[He whispers to Patricia.] Be on your guard. 

[Ea:it with Chiffinch.] 

LADY castlemaine 

[Coming to Patricia.] And how is the blackamoor? 

PATRICIA 

Meaning .'' 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

Oh — your Portugal queen. 

PATRICIA 

The poor soul suffers — for lack of love. 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

Foh! How can an ugly little wretch like that expect 
love? 

< 98 > 



ACT II 

PATRICIA 

[Coming up to her, and speaking with earnest sim- 
plicity.] When I rode into the inn-yard t'other day, 
you was sweet and gracious. What have I done to 
change you? 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

[^Carelessly, avoiding her look.] Oh, / am not 
changed. 

PATRICIA 

By my truly you are. I said to myself: It's the 
lucky girl I am, to have won the favour of so kind and 
lovely a lady. Why, then, do you now belie your gentle 
nature, and speak to me as though you was my enemy? 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

[Looking at her closely.] Girl — are you jesting? 

PATRICIA 

[Almost frightened.] I know not what you mean. 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

Either you are the simplest milkmaid that ever drew 
udder, or the slyest vixen that ever ran to earth. 

PATRICIA 

[With dignity.] Neither of these. I am but a young 
-C 99 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

girl who fears she may have offended, for she is new to 
the court. 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

l_Bitterli/.1 God ! how soon the newness will wear 
off! [Relaxing; condescending. 1 I am not vexed with 
you, child, or, if I be, 'tis your innocence hath vexed me. 

PATRICIA 

[Puzzled.] I cannot understand that. 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

[With a mocking laugh.'\ Can you not? Well, well; 
keep your innocence, or the manner of it, as long as you 
can. 'Tis the finest bait where you are fishing. 

PATRICIA 

Riddles. You all speak in riddles that seem to hide 
xuipleasing answers. 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

Oh, you'll find 'em pleasing in time. Fish, my lady 
Patricia; fish wherever you will, so you fish not in my 
waters. 

PATRICIA 

I should thank you for your advice if I knew what 
language you were talking. 



ACT II 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

'Tis plain English, and 'tis not advice, but a com- 
mand! 

PATRICIA 

[Breaking out.] Oh, hould your whisht, now! Now 
you've gone too far! For I take no commands, here 
or anywhere in the wide world, save from the Queen. 
[Enter Buckingham from the back. At the same 

time a footman, armed with a long pole, to which a 

lighted taper z.< fixed, comes and lights the candles in 

the sconces. A blaze of light.] 

BUCKINGHAM 

Babs, by my soul — and Lady Patricia. A fair con- 
junction. The rising star, and — but let the simile go. 

[To Patricia, with a low bow.] Lady Patricia, my 
very dutiful obeisance. 

[Patricia curtseys.] 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

[To Patricia, mockingly.] If you knew how you are 
honoured ! 

PATRICIA 

Or, at least, who honoured me. 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

[To Buckingham.] Ho, George, there's a slap in 

-cioi:}. 



MAVOURNEEN 

the face for you ! [As if it were showing him off.^ The 
cynosure of all observers; the very gem and jewel 
of Charles's court; the ingenious, the brave, the noble — 

BUCKINGHAM 

[Protesting.'] Now Babs, Babs! 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham. 

PATRICIA 

[Starting back in horror.] Oh — ! 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

O, George, your reputation has gone before you. 

BUCKINGHAM 

[To Patricia.] Not to my disadvantage, I trust. 

PATRICIA 

[Recovering her self-possession.] Oh, my Lord, if 
you are content with your reputation, why should I 
cavil at it? 

[Enter Mrs. Myddleton with Lord Bristol. Serv- 
ants place the card tables about the room.] 

myddleton 
[In conversation with Bristol.] Fie, fie, my lord; 
these things should be hidden; you are too fiee. 



ACT II 

BRISTOL 

But witty. Say I'm witty — wit covers a multitude 
of shins — [He waits for her to laugh, but she does not 
see the joke, which, indeed, is a poor one, and unneces- 
sary from him.^ 

No sense of humour. [He sees Patricia.] Aha! 
Lady Patricia! Have you rode again lately? 

PATRICIA 

No, I have not; and I miss it. My Rosinante will be 
eating his head off; and when next we go out, we'll 
break each other's neck. 

[Enter Berkeley and Mrs. Roberts.] 

BERKELEY 

Let me perish if you're not the loveliest of women ! 
Let me perish else! 

ROBERTS 

That's what you say to every woman. 
[Enter Montagu from the King's door. He makes 
straight for Patricia.] 

MONTAGU 

Still here? 

PATRICIA 

Wh?r§ else, since I'm waiting for the King? 



MAVOURNEEN 

MONTAGU 

[With obvious joy.] Ah! the King will be too late; 
the Court's assembling. 

PATRICIA 

Why is it assembling? 

MONTAGU 

'Tis the card hour, I thank heaven ! 

PATRICIA 

O, fie! Do you thank heaven for gambling? 

MONTAGU 

No. I thank heaven for my own private thoughts. 

PATRICIA 

'Tis uncivil not to disclose them. 

MONTAGU 

IPassionately.l Will you give me leave to disclose 
them? Will you give me leave to include you in them? 

PATRICIA 

Why should I? 

MONTAGU 

l^Impulsiveli/.l Because I love you. 



ACT II 

PATRICIA 

Whirra! Will you take me by storm? 

MONTAGU 

You are in great peril. I love you. Give me leave 
to shield you against the peril. 

PATRICIA 

I fear no peril, and I see no peril. 

MONTAGU 

It is here; all around you. It is [pointing to the 
King's door} there! 

PATRICIA 

Have you so poor an opinion of me, Mr. Montagu? 

MONTAGU 

I love you! [^TaJees her hand.} 

PATRICIA 

Hush! 
[Buckingham comes to them. Montagu moves away 
•with a gesture of suppressed anger.} 

BUCKINGHAM 

Beware of ensigns, pretty charmer, and their soft 
nothings. 



MAVOURNEEN 

* PATRICIA 

His soft nothing was to tell me 'tis the gaming hour. 
What will that be at all? 

BUCKINGHAM 

Why, old Rowley — 

PATRICIA 

Who's old Rowley? 

BUCKINGHAM 

O, come, come! King Charles, of course. He can- 
not sleep o' nights, till he have won our money. 

PATRICIA 

Has he such luck? 

BUCKINGHAM 

He has such — skill. 

PATRICIA 

Shall I be seeing the whole court, then? 

BUCKINGHAM 

Have you not seen it yet? 

PATRICIA 

How would I see it, when I've been closeted with 
the Queen all the time? 



ACT II 

[Bristol goes to the centre opening, where he meets two 
lovely young women {The Misses Brooke) and 
brings them down.] 

MRS. ROBERTS 

You must not let yourself be dazzled by the splendour 
of it, child. 

PATRICIA 

I'll do my endeavours to remain composed. 
[Lords and Ladies enter, singly and in couples. 1 

BERKELEY 

[To Patricia, pointing to Bristol and the two Misses 
Brooke.] Well, my wild Irish Beauty.'' Two more 
stones in your path? 

PATRICIA 

D'ye mean anything? 

— BERKELEY 

Take my meaning or leave my meaning; but Castle- 
maine isn't beaten yet. Myddleton and Roberts have 
not hauled down their colours, and here's Bristol has 
brought his nieces to market ! Oh, faith ! It's a rough 
road you've chosen, and somebody will have a bad fall 
— I say not who. [He turns away from her."] 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

[To Montagu.] What are they all after? What's 
the sense of their talk ? The nightmare ! Mr. Montagu, 
the nightmare! 

MONTAGU 

Let me take you out of it then. 

PATRICIA 

No! I'll fight my way through. 

[Enter Arlington from the King's door.l 

ARLINGTON 

His Majesty will be here presently. [Looking about 
him.] My wife; has any one seen my wife? 

ASHLEY 

Ask Buckingham. 

ARLINGTON 

Ah! [He crosses to Buckingham.] 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

[To Ashley.] Too bad. You'll have them cutting 
each other's throat. 

ASHLEY 

Listen. \ 

ARLINGTON 

[To Buckingham.] George, Ashley tells me I am 
to ask you whether you have seen my wife. 



ACT II 

BUCKINGHAM 

IStartled.] Eh ? I ? — Oh, yes ; a while ago. 

ARLINGTON 

Why is she not here ? Was she well when you left her ? 

BUCKINGHAM 

I have never seen her in better health. 

ARLINGTON 

Thank heaven. Is she not wonderful? Let me tell 
you something. [He whispers to Buckingham.] 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

\_To Ashley, laughing.] There's for your throat- 
cutting ! 

MYDDLETON 

[To Patricia.] You must not be alarmed by the 
great folk you see around you, child. 

ROBERTS 

[Patronisingly.'] Though timidity would be natural, 
to one so new to the company of wits and beauties. 

PATRICIA 

[Innocently.'] Which are you.f" [They turn away, 
furious.] 

<109> 



MAVOURNEEN 

[Enter Lady Arlington. Buckingham meets her and 
leads her in.] 

ARLINGTON 

Look! Look! My wife! She comes! The swan- 
like grace ! The sinuous motions ! Notice her action ! 
Observe the way she lifts her feet ! 

PATRICIA 

Are you speaking of a horse? 

ARLINGTON 

I am speaking of my wife. 

PATRICIA 

Well — how was I to know? 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

Your tongue is a little too nimble, child; you are not 
now in your Irish bogs. 

PATRICIA 

And I wish I was in so wholesome a place ! 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

Foh ! You should thank God for the difference. 

PATRICIA 

Difference, is it? Oh, whirra, whirra, what for will 
you be speaking of it at all, at all ? To bring the green 



ACT II 

fields of Erin before my memory, and the blue seas that 
come kissing the feet of my father's castle whispering 
to me: "Pat allannah, come and swim, come and 
bathe your body in us; come and wash your soul white 
in us!" And the curlews screamin' round the tower; 
and the sun and the clouds playin' at catch-as-catch-can 
on the blue waters! And the wild days on horseback 
— over stone walls, over ditches and dykes, wid me hair 
flying in the winds and the salt breath o' the say ca- 
ressin' me and coaxin' me ! Hie, away, Accushla, my lit- 
tle brown pony, you an' me's alone in the world, and never 
a sorrow or sin to come nigh us! [To Arlington, who 
tries to interrupt her as he sees the King's door open.'] 
Och, hould your whisht! If I cannot breathe the air 
o' my homeland, let me dream myself back to it for the 
Lord's sake ! 

[Enter King Charles followed by Pepys and Chif- 
FiNCH. There is a stir among the courtiers, but 
Charles motions silence, and stands listening to Pa- 
tricia as she continues in her rhapsody.] 
Och, the room's heavy with amber and bergamot, and 
it's monstrous fine you all are, to be sure; but give me 
the wind on my hills; give me the innocent faces o' the 
sheep lookin' up at me; give me the smell o' the peat 
fire, wlien me and Moyra sit snug roastin' chestnuts ; and 
Father O'RafFerty there wid his fiddle an' all, an' Moyra 
croonin' her songs. [She becomes atcare of Charles 



MAVOURNEEN 

who is now close to her, staring at her admiringly; she 
continues in one breath.'] Bad manners to you, phwat 
are you staring at, you jackeen with the dark face and 
the bowld eyes. O, begob the King ! [She stands petri- 
fied.] 

CHARLES 

Pray continue — 

PATRICIA 

[Bobbing a countrified curtsey.] Faith, no! My 
Pegasus takes walls and ditches, but he baulks at a 
crown. 

CHARLES 

The greater my loss. I have no luck this evening. I 
fear I've kept you waiting. 

PATRICIA 

[Airily.] Oh, your Majesty, don't apologise. 
[The courtiers are profoundly shocked.] 

PATRICIA 

Lord Arlington kept me amused, and Mr. Montagu 
kept me interested. 

CHARLES 

[Drily.] That was not what I had you hither for. 
I wish Arlington and Montagu would amuse me. But 
they've plagued me with dull politics, till my brain is 



ACT II 

dancing a fandang with my poor skull. Your rhapsody 
was a breath of wind blowing the cobwebs away. 

PATRICIA 

lAbruptltf.] Will there be war.-* 

ALI, 

[Shocked.] Hush! 

CHARLES 

[Laughing.'] Ah, young lady, we never ask plain 
questions, or give plain answers. Odds fish! We're 
too much alarmed at the thought of hearing the truth! 
Yet tell her the truth, Mr. Secretary. 

PEPYS 

Sire, the Dutch will be in the Medway, unless — 

PATRICIA 

Foreigners in the Medway ! Why that's unthinkable ! 

CHARLES 

[To Lady Castlemaine.] D'ye see the flash ! I vow 
to Gad we'll make you High Admiral o' the fleet ! 

PATRICIA 

I would to heaven you could! 

CHARLES 

'Tis the French Maid, Joan of Arc, upon my soul! 



MAVOURNEEN 

ARLINGTON 

[Rubbing his hands.l He's catching fire! 

ROBERTS 

The saucy jil-flirt! 

BERKELEY 

[To Castlemaine.] Oh, your poor nose, Babs! 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

[To him.'] What now, Charles? 

BERKELEY 

Out of joint again ^ I heard it snap. 

CHARLES 

l^Going to his seat at the centre table.] Well — cards ! 
Lady Arlington — [To Buckingham.] George — 

[Lady Castlemaine moves forward.] 

No, Babs — We must honour the new coiner. [He 
waves a gracious summons to Patricia.] Lady Patri- 
cia — 

[Lady Castlemaine turns away in a fury.] 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

The devil fetch her ! 



ACT II 

CHARLES 

Come. Sit. Sit. 

[All sit] 

\_Groups are arranged at all the tables.'\ 

PATRICIA 

Cards, is it.'' But I don't play. 

ARLINGTON 

lShocJced.1 Hush! Hush! The King commands. 

PATRICIA 

It's no use commanding what I can't do. 

BUCKINGHAM 

The King is waiting. 

PATRICIA 

By your leave, your Majesty, I know no card games. 
Choose some one else. 

PEPYS 

[To Ashley.] A fine, high-spirited young woman! 

CHARLES 

This is amazing! Have you never had a card in your 
hands ? 

^ PATRICIA 

Oh, faith yes. But only to build castles with. 



MAVOURNEEN 

CHARLES 



Castles ? 



PATRICIA 

Houses of cards; ay. That's proper fun. 

CHARLES 

Why, let's see you! [He rises.^ Build one now! 

PATRICIA 

[Like a shy child; hut eager to begin.'] Shall I? 

CHARLES 

\_Handing her a pack of cards.] Go to work. 

PATRICIA 

Oh, but I must have three packs ! 

CHARLES 

Have thirty ! — [He collects packs from other tables, 
even where people have begun to play; general move- 
ment; those who had sat down rise.] 

BERKELEY 

[At Lady Castlemaine's table.] Ecod! Says she 
don't play cards, and plays 'em better than the oldest 
hand ! 



ACT II 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

[Who has just had her pack seized hy the King; furi- 

ously.l More cards here ! 

[Chiffinch brings her a fresh 'pack.'\ 

CHARLE3 

[Throwing the packs he has collected on the table; 
to Patricia.] There! Is that enough? 

PATRICIA 

[Clapping her hands.'] Splendid! I'll build a pal- 
ace! [She begins building.] * 

CHARLES 

Let me wait on you, fair architect. 

PATRICIA 

Hand me the cards then ! 

PEPYS 

The King, waiting on his wife's tiring-woman! 

BUCKINGHAM 

Master Secretary, have you never heard of the wife's 
maid becoming the master's mistress ! 

PEPYS 

[Conscience-stricken.'] Hum. Flesh is weak, my 
Lord. 

* Grammont. 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

[To the King.] Don't come so close; and don't jog 
my elbow ! 

BRISTOL 

[To Lady Castlemaine.] D'ye hear her? 

BUCKINGHAM 

[Who is now the centre of a little group, consisting of 
Bristol, Lady Arlington, Pepys and the two Brookes.] 
Faith — a rhyme! [Montagu listens in the back- 
ground.'] 

An Irish maid on market day 

Brought all her goods to court, sir. 
She spread 'em out, a fine display. 

And that was royal sport, sir, 
Rowley, who chanced to wander by. 

Caught by the Irish brogue, sir. 
And kindled by a flashing eye. 

Fell victim to the rogue, sir — 

MONTAGU 

[Trembling with rage, but in a suppressed voice.] I 
think you are rhyming, my lord? 

BUCKINGHAM 

I VOW to Gad, so I am! 



ACT II 

MONTAGU 

That is bad for your health. 

BUCKINGHAM 

Who made you my leech? 

LADY ARLINGTON 

[^Putting her hand on Buckingham's arm.li Not here, 
George! \_She takes him away.'\ 

CHARLES 

[To Patricia.] Fair fingers — nimble and white. 

PATRICIA 

[Building.'] Don't touch! — I'm ashamed o' the 
whiteness; 'tis for lack o' the sun. At home they're a 
wholesome brown. 

CHARLES 

Fair, whether brown or white ! 

PATRICIA 

Oh, hould your whisht; it's getting difficult. 

BUCKINGHAM 

[To Lady Arlington.] Oh, sweetheart, those hours 
this afternoon were heaven ! 

lady Arlington 
Hush ! Hush ! Forget ! 



MAVOURNEEN 

BUCKINGHAM 

Forget! Such raptures can never be erased from my 
memory. 

LADY ARLINGTON 

Lud ! That were a pity, for then your memory would 
need no refreshing! 

BUCKINGHAM 

Tormentor ! I'll forget at once ! 

LADY ARLINGTON 

[^Coquettishly.'] Nay. Not till to-morrow ! 

BERKELEY 

[At Lady Castlemaine's table-l She's building her 
fortune, Babs. 

lady castlemaine 

Mind the game. [Slamming down a card.'\ I trump 
you, with my King. 

ARLINGTON 

[At her table.'] I thought you'd lost your King long 
ago. 

LADY CASTLEMAINK 

Think again. 

CHARLES 

[Alluding to Patricia's castle, which is now lofty."] 
It grows apace. 



ACT II 

PATRICIA 

[Building. '\ I rode to build my fortune; and look! 
This shall be an image of it! If I build to the top, it 
shall mean good luck ! 

CHARLES 

The owner of such charms can never have ill luck. 

PATRICIA 

You put me out. Look ! 'Tis nearing the top ! 

CHARLKS 

Marvellous, I protest. 

PATRICIA 

Sit down! [Pushes him on to a stool'\ for now comes 
the danger. 

PEPYS 

Ay : the nearer the summit, the greater the peril. 

CHARLES 

Silence! \To the Court in general.^ Cease playing 
— Stop your breath ! She's reached the coping ! 

[All stop playing and rise except Lady Castlemaine.] 

LADY castlemaine 

[Slamming down a card."] You should play that game 
in the nursery, Charles. 



MAVOURNEEN 

BUCKINGHAM 

lUnder his breath.'] 'Twill lead thither in time. 
[Montagu, who overhears this, can scarcely control 
himself.] 

CHARLES 

[Sternly.] I said silence ! 

PATRICIA 

[Still building.] I have built my way up! 

[Placing cards in position.] This is my dear Queen's 
love ! This is her health, I pray may be restored. Now 
the two last! [The King hands her these.] This is — 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

The King's favour? 

PATRICIA 

Ay, madam ; for my love to tlie Queen ! Oh, but they 
need a light touch, and the utmost caution — 

CHARLES 

[Turns to Buckingham.] I vow she's crowned it! 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

Lud, 'tis plaguey hot! [She fans herself vigorously ; 
down comes Patricia's castle.] 

ALL 

Oh! 



ACT II 

CHARLES 

^Furious.] Wlio did that? I say, who did it? 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

[Languidly. 1 Lud, Charles, is it the first time your 
favour has crumbled at a breath? 

CHARLES 

[Striding towards /ler.] You — ! 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

[Facing him.'\ Well? 

PATRICIA 

[Behind table, interposing.] 'Tis nothing, Sire; and 
Lady Castlemaine has a right to fan herself, being of 
a stout habit, poor thing. 

CHARLES 

[Laughing.'\ Odds fish, that's true, too! 
[Lady Castlemaine turns back to her cards in fury. 
Charles goes up laughing among the courtiers. Gen- 
eral talk.'] 

MONTAGU 

[To Patricia.] I thank heaven it ended as it did. 
Take warning by it. — Pat ! 

PATRICIA 

What warning will it be, raven ? 
< 123 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

MONTAGU 

Not to build in the clouds. 

PATRICIA 

Where will I build, then? 

MONTAGU 

Here; in my heart. 

CHARLES 

\^In a group, consisting of Buckingham, Bristol and 
Berkeley.] No, no; I'm in no mood to settle anything 
but that pestilent woman. [Indicating Lady Castle- 

MAINE.] 

[Patricia sits below the card table and busies herself 
arranging the fallen cards in packs. ] 

BRISTOL 

But this is a question of vital consequence. 

BERKELEY 

And 'tis a question only you can resolve. 

CHARLES 

Oh, out with it, then. 

PEPY8 

Thank Heaven they can be serious at need ! 
'< 124 > 



ACT II 

BUCKINGHAM 

We were hot in a discussion as to which of our reign- 
ing Beauties has the shapeliest leg. 
ICriesj little screams from the ladies. Laughter from 

the men.] 

MONTAGU 

[^Horrified.] Upon my soul — ! 

ARLINGTON 

There can be no manner of doubt on that score; my — 

LADY ARLINGTON 

[Severely.] Sit down, Henry ! 

BRISTOL 

I assure you — 

BERKELEY 

I know — 

ASHLEY 

I can convince you — 

ARLINGTON 

I tell you, in green silk stockings — 

CHARLES 

[Laughing.] Silence! [Quietly.] On this subject I 
speak with authority. 



MAVOURNEEN 

BUCKINGHAM 

Ay, Gad ! I should think so. 

CHARLES 

The shapeliest legs in this company belong to — [He 
looks round at the ladies, who are irrvmediately all in a 
flutter. '\ Belong to — [His eye falls on Lady Castle- 

MAINE.] 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

Spare my blushes, Charles. 

CHARLES 

[Seriously, and with a profound how."] Belong to 
Lady Patricia O'Brien.* 
[Dead silence. '\ 

PATRICIA 

[Looking over her shoulder, says with innocent pleas- 
ure."] Thank you. [She turns to her cards again.] 
[Montagu is fuming. Pepys edges towards him. 
Lady Castlemaine rises.] 

ARLINGTON 

In the presence of my wife — 

[Lady Arlington silences him with her fan.] 

BERKELEY 

Hush, Arlington: His Majesty no doubt speaks with 
knowledge. 

* Grammont. 



ACT II 

MONTAGU 

[Under his hreaih.'\ God — ! 

CHARLES 

[Laughing J] Honi soit qui mal y pense ! * 

PEPYS 

[Quietly to Montagu.] Come away, my young friend. 

MONTAGU 

[Roughly. '\ Let me alone! 

CHARLES 

[Enjoying the situation.'] Ay — ay — you're a proper 
herd of Gadarene swine, to be sure. Smiling and smirk- 
ing, with evil thoughts in your minds, and an evil glitter 
in your eyes. I have the honour and privilege of speak- 
ing with knowledge, because the Queen brought the Lady 
Patricia to me first in the guise of a boy. 

[Patricia rises and curtseys.] 
[Montagu is enormously relieved. Those who were 
present in the innyard, when Patricia rode in, turn to 
each other as much as to say " Of course; we remem- 
ber."] 

ARLINGTON 

Sire, sire, even so. In the absence of means of com- 
parison I am loyal [indicating his wife] to Isabella. 

* Grammont. 



MAVOURNEEN 

' BUCKINGHAM 

So am I ! None are so fair as those in green silk stock- 
ings ! • 

ARLINGTON 

[Amazed.] Eh — ? [He turns to his wife.] Isa- 
bella—? 

CHARLES 

[Laughing.] I cannot well ask Lady Patricia to con- 
vince you. 
[Montagu who was moving towards another group, 

turns abruptly at the sound of Patricia's voice.] 

PATRICIA 

Oh! If that's all that's troubling you! Many's the 
mile I've traipsed through our bogs with my coats to 
my knees and none the worse for it ! — 
[And without more ado she lifts her skirts to her knees. 

A murmur of admiration.] * 

LADY CASTLEMAINE 

[Indignant.] The brazen hussy ! 
[Patricia has let her skirts fall. She finds herself 
face to face with Montagu, who is white with fury.] 

PATRICIA 

[Frightened.] Sidney — ! 

* Grammont. 

< 128 > 



ACT II 

MONTAGU 

Farewell ! 
[He turns his back on her and strides out, leaving her 
puzzled and astonished. An orchestra strikes up. 
Groups form for a dance. The King comes and offers 
Patricia his hand. She is in deep distress, looking 
after Montagu. The Dance begins. 

THE curtain falls 



<129> 



ACT III 



ACT III 

[^The Pantiles at Tunhridge wells. On the right is a 
crescent of two-storied wooden houses, with a wooden 
colonnade along the front. Under the colonnade are 
tiny shops such as are found at fashionable resorts: a 
jeweller's; a milliner's, a pastry cook's, etc. Patricia 
lodges over the pastry cook's and her house is dis- 
tinguished by a balcony, from which steps lead down 
to the colonnade. A row of trees runs down the centre 
of the stage. On the left is a shrubbery, in which is 
one of the fountains at which the Quality take the 
waters. There a maid is in attendance. There are oil 
lanterns between the pillars of the colonnade, and cir- 
cular seats round the trees. It is late afternoon. 

The scene is full of life and animation. All the charac- 
ters in the play are promenading under the trees, or 
under the colonnade. Some are in the shops; some 
are seated under the trees. There are pedlars; a 
woman selling lavender; an Italian boy with a hurdy- 
gurdy; another with a peep-show; a girl selling flow- 
ers; another with oranges, etc, etc. All are moving 
about, chattering, laughing, singing. 



MAVOURNEEN 

[Lady Arlington is brought on in Sedan Chair ac- 
companied by Buckingham. Music on.} 

[Ashley sitting under the first tree, with Mrs. Myd- 
DLETON and Mrs. Roberts, Berkeley is talking with 
the two Misses Brooke; Buckingham is with Lady 
Arlington. Pepys is half out of sight in the shrub- 
bery, showing Mercer a sheet of MS. music; Mrs. 
Pepys is in the jeweller's shop; Bristol is drinking at 
the fountain.'} 

ASHLEY 

Let me perish, but 'tis rank tyranny to tie us by the 
leg in this countrified hole. 

MYDDLETON 

And all because the little Portugal woman must take 
the waters ! 

ROBERTS 

As if the waters of Tunbridge would heal her. 

ASHLEY 

'Tis to be hoped she's past that. 

BERKELEY 

[Joins the group.} Come, come, Anthony; what's she 
done to you? 

ASHLEY 

Got me here, and keeps me here. Isn't that enough.'' 



ACT III 

BUCKINGHAM 

[Coming up with Lady Arlington, and speaJcing to 
the Brookes.] Put on a merrier face, angels; we're to 
have an alfresco frolic to-night. 

MISS HILL BROOKE 

As 'twere dancing on the Queen's grave. 

LADY ARLINGTON 

You give me a gooseflesh ! 'Twill be proper sport. I 
am coming as Diana. 

BRISTOL 

In green silk stockings.'' 

LADY ARLINGTON 

Shall I never hear the last of them? 

BRISTOL 

Never. Those stockings are now a page of history. 

BUCKINGHAM 

A footnote. But talking of stockings, has any one 
seen the fair Patricia? 

MISS HILL BROOKE 

No one. She's shut herself in her lodging all day. 
< J35 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

MISS FRANCES BROOKE 

Artful wretch. She's making herself peculiar. 

BUCKINGHAM 

Dangling the bait out of Rowley's reach, eh? 

MYDDLETON 

[Who has joined the group.] I vow I never saw the 
King so deeply in love ! 

Miss HILL BROOKE 

Oh, the wickedness of innocence! 

ROBERTS 

Poor Babs Castlemaine ! She goes out of one vapour 
into another, for mere fury ! 

BUCKINGHAM 

Where does the inaccessible Nymph, Patricia, dwell? 

LADY ARLINGTON 

[With jealousy.] What is that to you, George? 

BUCKINGHAM 

Nothing: I only asked. 

ASHLEY 

As a fact, she lodges there. Over the pastry cook's. 
< 136 > 



ACT III 

LADY ARLINGTON 

Let us take the air, George. 

BUCKINGHAM 

In a moment. 

BERKELEY 

[Laughing; to Buckingham.] A little clinging, 
George? Ivy, George? 

BUCKINGHAM 

[With a sigh. '\ Ivy} A limpet. 

LADY ARLINGTON 

[Calling.^ George! 

BUCKINGHAM 

Behold me! [He joins her."] 

[They go out through the shrubbery. '\ 

PEPYS 

[Bringing Mercer cautiously down from the shrub- 
bery.'] Take this with you, Mercer. Practise it. 
Learn the words. 'Tis my song. " Beauty Retire." 
Words by Sir George Davenant. Music by me. [He 
hums.] 

Beauty retire, thou dost my pity move ; 
Believe my pity, and then trust my love. 



MAVOURNEEN 

At first I thought her by a prophet sent 
As a reward for valour's toils. 
More worth than all my Father's spoils; 
But now she is become my punishment. 

[Mrs. Pepys comes out of the jeweller's shop and stands 
within earshot.'] 

MERCER 

Lord, 'tis properly sentimental! 

PEPYS 

[Holding her chin in his hand."] Dapper Dicky al- 
ways was sentimental. We'll run through it to-night, 
eh? When they're all at the King's frolic. You and I, 
eh? 

MERCER 

I am afraid of my mistress. 

PEPYS 

She'll be safe. Jigging it in Frenchified dances. 
Odds, bobs, we'll be merry, eh, chuck? [Chucks her 
under the chin-l You and Dapper Dicky, eh? 

[Mercer laughs."] 

MRS. PEPYS 

[^Coming down; coldly.] Mercer. 



ACT III 

MERCER 

IStartled.] La! [Demurely.l If you please, ma'am. 

MRS. PEPYS 

Go home. 

MERCER 

[^Bobbing a rather mocking curtsey.^ If you please, 
ma'am. 

[Mercer runs away giggling."] 

PEPYS 

[Weakly.'] Ura — shall we to supper, chuck? 

MRS. PEPYS 

[Ignoring the question.] I cannot keep a maid it 
seems, but you must lead her astray — 

PEPYS 

Now, woman, I brought you at heavy expense to the 
Wells for your health. Why will you sour your blood 
with these humours.'' 

MRS. PEPYS 

Why will you be so free with that jil-flirt? 

PEPYS 

Improving her mind, ma'am ; improving her mind. 



MAVOURNEEN 

MRS. PEPYS 

Ho ! " Dapper Dicky "— ! 

PEPYS 

\_In a rage.J Now God-a-Mercy! 

MRS. PEPYS 

" Dapper Dicky ! " 

PEPYS 

By the Lord, I'll pull your nose! * 
[Arlington joins them with Ashley.] 

ARLINGTON 

[^Coming between them.^ Billing and cooing, Mr. Sec- 
retary.? [To Mrs. Pepys.] Your servant, Madam. 
Upon my faith, the ideal couple. Like myself and my 
Isabella. Have you met Isabella.'' 

MRS. PEPYS 

[In spite of Pepys's signals.] Yes! I saw her wan- 
dering into the shrubbery with Lord Buckingham. 
[She moves away with Ashley.] 

ARLINGTON 

Precious Isabella! Her wit matches Buckingham's 
so well! They are great friends — great friends. She 
explained to me how she showed him her stockings. 

* Pepys's Diary. 



ACT III 

PEPYS 

On? 

ARLINGTON 

Oh, fie! Oh, fie! 

ASHLEY 

Fair Madam Pepys, have you seen the new hoods at 
the French milliner's? 

MRS. PEPYS 

[With a look at Pepys.] La ! No. 

ASHLEY 

Then give me the privilege of showing them to you. 
[He offers his hand, which Mrs. Pepys takes: they 
move off.l 

PEPYS 

[Calling after her. 1 Elizabeth — 

MRS. PEPYS 

[With bitter irony. 1 Dapper Dicky! 
[They go into the milliner's.^ 

ARLINGTON 

Mr. Secretary — 

PEPYS 

Pardon, my lord, but — 

[Pepys moves towards the milliner's shop."] 



MAVOURNEEN 

ARLINGTON 

Mr. Secretary ! What news out of Holland ? 

PEPYS 

I am awaiting Mr. Montagu with impatience; from 
Breda, whither I sent him. [He turns to go again.l 
[Patricia appears on her balcony.^ 

ARLINGTON 

Fie, Mr. Pepys ! You remove Uriah, that David may 
be unhindered. 
[Pepys turns.'] 

PEPYS 

[Puzzled.] David ? — Uriah } 

ARLINGTON 

Oh, come, come! In plain Engish: you send young 
Montagu on a dangerous errand, that Charles may dally 
unmolested with the wild Irish girl. 

PEPYS 

You insinuate that I, /, would lend myself to such 
an intrigue — ? 

ARLINGTON 

Not so hot, my friend. Charles is not ungrateful, and 
it shall redound to your honour ! 



ACT III 

PEPys 
Honour — ! [Speechless.'] My Lord, if you be such 
a stickler for honour, I advise you to look in the shrub- 
bery ! 

ARLINGTON 

[In a huff.] I think you grow impertinent, sir. 
[He goes towards the shrubbery but changes his mind, 
and exit.] 
[Some of the promenaders stroll off.] 

PATRICIA 

Mr. Pepys! 

PEPYS 

[Looking up, startled.] Eh? The Lady Patricia! 

PATRICI/- 

Wait till I come down to you ! 
[She runs to the end of the balcony, and down the 

stairs.] 
[The Town Dinner Bell rings in the distance. Bristol. 

exclaims " Dinner " and exit. All follow gradually.] 

PEPYS 

But — [He stands irresolute.] 

PATRICIA 

[Coming to him.] I've been shut up all day. Now 



MAVOURNEEN 

the gadflies have gone to their meal — and 'tis offal they 
feed on — I can take the air. Are you very hungry ? 

PEPYS 

To be plain with you, I have been put somewhat out of 
appetite. 

PATRICIA 

Come and sit ye down, then. 

PEPYS 

[With an anxious glance towards the milliner's shop.'\ 
But — my wife — 

PATRICIA 

Do I frighten you, Mr. Secretary? 

PEPYS 

Beauty never frightened me yet — 

PATRICIA 

[Indicating the seat beside her.'\ Well, then — 

PEPYS 

— and does not frighten me now. 
[He sits beside her with an insinuating air, and is about 
to put a protecting arm round Aer.] 

PATRICIA 

You're not to make love to me. 
-C 144 > 



ACT III 

[He takes his arm away, crushed.'] 
I want news. 

PEPYS 

Of what, cruel nymph? 

PATRICIA 

[^Carelessly. 1 Oh — any news. But mainly of the 
Dutch. 

PEPYS 

I am waiting to hear. 

PATRICIA 

From whom? 

PEPYS 

Young Montagu is to tell me. 

PATRICIA 

[Indifferently.'] Oh, indeed? Is he your spy? 

PEPYS 

No, no, no! He's gone openly, being master of their 
tongue. 

PATRICIA 

Not a dangerous errand then ? 

PEPYS 

Very — if he was not discreet. 
-C 145 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

You think him discreet ? 

PEPYS 

I should not have sent him else. 

PATRICIA 

And brave? 

PEPYS 

A fine young fellow. A fine, discreet, brave, young 
fellow. 

PATRICIA 

But hot-tempered? 

PEPYS 

No more than becomes a gentleman. 

PATRICIA 

And swift to take offence? 

PEPYS 

Not without cause. 

PATRICIA 

Oh? Do you say I gave him cause? 

PEPYS 

[Laughing.'] Ah! You've led me into a trap! 



ACT III 

PATRICIA 

But do you? 

PEpys 
Must I answer? 

PATRICIA 

You must, 

PEPYS 

Why, then, yes, I do. 

PATRICIA 

Because I showed my ankles? 

PEPYS 

[Ticking the points off on his -fingers.'] We are to 
consider where you showed 'em; whom you showed 'em 
to; how much of 'em you showed; and the feelings to- 
wards you of all the spectators — including our young 
friend. 

PATRICIA 

When do you expect him back ? 

PEPYS 

I am awaiting him impatiently. 

PATRICIA 

[^ larmed. ] Here ? 



MAVOURNEEN 

PEpys 
Of course. 

PATRICIA 

Thank you. Then / must be gone. [^She rises.'\ 

PEPYS 

Well, I'm sending Madam Pepys to London to-morrow. 
She'll be company for you. 

PATRICIA 

You're in a monstrous hurry to be rid of me. 

PEPYS 

I thought you were in a monstrous hurry to go. 

PATRICIA 

[Sitting.'] Mr. Pepys, I think you're a — I think 
you're — [She breaks down, sobbing with her head on 
his shoulder.^ 

PEPYS 

There, now; there now! 
[He puts his arm round her."] 
[Enter Mrs, Pepys from the milliner's with Ashley who 
gives her a hat box and points to Pepys and Patricia.] 

MRS. PEPYS 

[Severely.'] Samuel! 



ACT III 

PEPYS 

[Rises. '\ O Lord ! In the wrong again ! 
[He joins his wife, and they go out, leaving Ashley. 
Enter Father O'Rafferty, on a very small donkey, 
led by a boy. He dismounts. The shop people begin 
to put up their shutters. And having done so, they 
lock the shop doors and go off.'\ 

ASHLEY 

[Staring at Father O'Rafferty.] Split me! what in 
the world is this ? 

[Patricia looks up-l 

o'rafferty 
[To the donkey boy.] Don't bate the faithful baste. 

PATRICIA 

[Rushing to him.] O, Father O'Rafferty, darlin' ! 
[She crosses herself and curtseys.] 

0*RAFF.ERTY 

[Dismounting and not recognising her in her grand 
clothes.] My humble duty. Madam. 

ASHLEY 

Now, my good fellow, make room for your betters ! 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

[To Ashley, pushing him away.] Och ! stand out o' 
my way; and where will ye find the betters of him? 
[To O'Rafferty.] Father alannah! 

o'rafferty 
[Overjoyed.'] 'Tis the Lady Patricia! 'Tis Patrick! 
'Tis my own Pat! 

PATRICIA 

[Seising his hand.] Come away with you. 

ASHLEY 

A pathetic meeting, stap me ! The prodigal daughter, 
and the swine. 

PATRICIA 

[To him, fiercely.] Ha'n't you gone, yet? 

ASHLEY 

Don't forget the King's frolic ? 
[Exit through the shrubbery.] 

PATRICIA 

[Dragging at O'Rafferty.] Come, come. 

o'rafferty 
[Alluding to the donhey boy.] I must discharge my 
debt. 



ACT III 

PATRICIA 

[Giving the boy a coin.] Oh, here! Run away, and 
take Pegasus with you. 

[Exeunt Boy and Donkey.] 

O^RAFFERTY 

A guinea ! Monstrous ! 

PATRICIA 

'Tis worth a thousand to see your face again. 

o'rafferty 
Let me look at you. I haven't gathered my wits yet. 

PATRICIA 

Here I am. Father aroon. 

o'rafferty 
A fine lady ; a fine court-lady, by the powers ! 

PATRICIA 

Thanks to your teaching. Father. 

o'rafferty 
It's the proud man I should be. 

PATRICIA 

It's the proud man you are. 

-{:i5i> 



MAVOURNEEN 

o'rafferty 
IPensively.'] Ay — ay — If you are happy. 

PATRICIA 

Why for should I not be happy? ^She sits under the 
tree.'] 

c'rafferty 
That's what I'm asking. I'm after having a talk with 
the Queen's barber; him that I knew in Portugal; and he 
hath told me much news. 

PATRICIA 

Of me? 

o'rafferty 
Mostly. 

PATRICIA 

And what had he to say of me ? 

o'rafferty 
Many things I like, and some I mislike. 

PATRICIA 

[Coaxingly.'] Tell me the things you like. 

o'rafferty 
I've told you those often. 



ACT III 

PATRICIA 



The others, then. 



O RAFFERTY 

No. You shall tell me those. 

[Chiffinch is seen coming along the Pantiles.'] 

PATRICIA 

What's the matter with you. Father? 

o'rafferty 
Doubt. [He sits beside her.] 

PATRICIA 

[Looking at him searchingly .] Oh? I see the 
Queen's barber has been busy. Ask me questions boldly. 
Be a man. 

o'rafferty 
Ay — but you're a woman, and how will you answer ? 

PATRICIA 

Have I ever told you a lie? 

o'rafferty 
You had never been to court. 

PATRICIA 

Ask what you will and I'll answer the plain truth. 



MAVOURNEEN 

o'rafferty 
You are suddenly rich. 
[Chiffinch goes into the pastrycook's s}iop.'\ 

PATRICIA 

Why do you say so ? 

o'rafferty 
Paupers don't give guineas to donkey boys. Paupers 
don't come to the Wells. 

PATRICIA 

The King pays for my lodging. 

o'rafferty 
\_Pointing to her pearls.'] Paupers don't wear pearls. 

PATRICIA 

The King gave me those. 

O^RAFFERTY 

And a fine golden watch. 

PATRICIA 

And the King gave me that. 

o'rafferty 
And silks and satins like a duchess. 

^154:). 



ACT III 

PATRICIA 

The King — 

O^RAFFERTY 

[Rises in great distress.l God forgive me, I wish 
you'd a' lied ! 
[Chiffinch comes from the pastrycook's shop towards 

Patricia.] 

patricia 

What's gone wrong with your conscience, Padre, that 
you cannot bear the truth? 

o'rafferty 
My conscience is it? 'Tis your conscience I would 
examine. 

PATRICIA 

[^Rises and faces him."] See it in my eyes. Padre. 

o'rafferty 
Tell me this one thing: does King Charles ask nothing 
in return for his gifts ? 

PATRICIA 

Ay. Service to the Queen. 

o'rafferty 
But for himself? 
IPause.l 
Ah! you are silent. 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

[Proudly. 1 He may ask; and I may refuse. 
[Chiffinch has come close. As he speaks Patricia is 
startled, and O'Rafferty's worst suspicions are con- 
firmed.'] 

CHIFFINCH 

The King sends me. I am in luck to have found you. 
His Majesty bids you stay in your lodging. His Majesty 
will honour you with a visit. 

PATRICIA 

[Recovering herself.] His Majesty must be content 
with the shelter of this tree, then, for my lodging is not 
fit to receive him. 

CHIFFINCH 

Now, dear lady, can I take him that message? 
[O'Rafferty is deeply distressed.] 

PATRICIA 

Since you could bring me his, I doubt whether any 
message is beyond you, 

CHIFFINCH 

Well — Charles is good-natured — and — 
[He attempts to touch her arm.] 

PATRICIA 

[Avoiding him.] I wish you good evening. 



ACT III 

CHIFFINCH 

Eh? [Sees there is nothing more to be said.'\ Your 
very humble servant. 
lExit.] 
[A pause.] 

o'rafferty 
l^Sinks on the seat and buries his face in his hands; 
then he looks up.] Oh, Pat, Pat, you're fencing with me. 
You've told me the truth; but have you told me all the 
truth.'' It's no avail tossing your head, and wishing 
you was rid of the tiresome ould priest, who's come 
among your grand friends, mud-splashed, and with shiny 
knees. My knees are shiny because I've worn them out 
praying the Holy Virgin to watch over you; and I'm 
mud-splashed because I've rode a long way; for " Go and 
shield her," said my love; "Go and save her," said my 
heart; and here I am, and you'll not turn a deaf ear to 
me, who love you as if you was my own child. 

PATRICIA 

[Throwing herself on her knees to him.] Oh, 'tis 
better than a hundred fathers you've been to me. 
[She takes his hands.] 
Tell me what 'tis you want I should do. 



<157> 



MAVOURNEEN 

o'rafferty 
I've come, after all, to put the fledgling back into the 
house-martin's nest. I've come to fetch you home. 

PATRICIA 

So suddenly? I cannot come. 

o'rafferty 
[Sternly. 1 Why not? What's in the way? 

PATRICIA 

Oh, Father, we're at cross purposes; and I cannot tell 
you more, for, alas, there's nothing to tell. But indeed 
I cannot come at once; I love — 

[O'Rafferty starts back-l 

I love the Queen too well. 

o'rafferty 
[Eagerly.^ Aha! Do you love her? 

PATRICIA 

With all my heart; and sorrow for her; and pity her. 
[Four Halberdiers enter and stand at the hack.'\ 

o'rafferty 
[Delighted.^ Now that's good hearing! Oh, that's 
good hearing. 

< 158 > 



ACT III 

PATRICIA 

\_Astonished at his delight.'] How could I not love 
her? The sweet soul — and she belike on her death- 
bed. 

[Chiffinch enters.'] 

o'rafferty 

[Speaking more to hirU'Self than to her.] Ay: and it's 
to my friend the Portugal leech I'll talk no later than 
directly — 

[The King enters accompanied by a few courtiers.] 

PATRICIA 

What about? 

o'rafferty 

Eh? Was I speaking? 

\ 

PATRICIA 

What will you talk to the Queen's leech about? 

o'rafferty 
Why, the Queen's health, to be sure. Ay! and the 
Queen's happiness, too. 

CHIFFINCH 

[To Patricia.] Lady Patricia — the King. [He 
retires.] 



MAVOURNEEN 

o'rafferty 
The King? [To Patricia.] What, the black-avised 
gentleman ? 

PATRICIA 

Ay ; with the handsome face. 

o'rafferty 
Come, then, child. 

PATRICIA 

I must not stir now. 

o'rafferty 
Then I stay with you. 

CHARLES 

[Coming to Patricia.] At confession, child? 

PATRICIA 

[With a curtsey.'] More like refusing to confess. 

CHARLES 

[To the Courtiers.'} We thank you. 
[The Courtiers look back laughing, bow and exeunt, 
with Chiffinch.] 
Come and sit beside me. [He sits under the tree.] 

PATRICIA 

You have just dismissed us, Sire. 



ACT III 

CHARLES 

[With a looh at O'Rafferty, who is bravely holding 
his ground.] All but you. 

PATRICIA 

The Queen awaits me. 

CHARLES 

The Queen, as you know very well, is in her evening 
bath. [To O'Rafferty.] Did you not hear me, sir? 

o'rafferty 
[Horribly frightened.'] Has — has your Majesty ad- 
dressed me.'' 

CHARLES 

I thanked you. 

o'raffertv 
Your Majesty is most gracious. 

CHARLES 

Odds Fish, take care I become not ungracious. 

PATRICIA 

[Laughing.] No, no, Sire! You must not bark at 
Father O'Rafferty; he is the best friend I have in the 
world. 

-C 161 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

CHARLES 

[To O'Rafferty.] That's a title others covet. 
Father — 

o'rafferty 
O'Rafferty. A poor parish priest. 

CHARLES 

[To Patricia.] So you love your best friend.'' 

PATRICIA 

In truly and that I do. 

CHARLES 

[Laughing.] In truly and I will be his best friend, 
then. [To O'Rafferty, very courteously.] What I 
wished to convey was, that I will not keep you from bet- 
ter company — Mr. Dean — 

o'rafferty 
[Not grasping the situation.] No, no, a poor par- 
ish — 

CHARLES 

'Tis not in my gift; but the Queen is of your faith; go 
to her, Mr. Dean; tell her what I say, and she'll see it 
done, Mr. Dean. 

o'rafferty 

[Unwilling to go.] But, Sire — 



ACT III 

CHARLES 

Enough ! 

o'rafferty 
Yet I would thank your Majesty. 

CHARLES 

Thank the Queen. 

o'rafferty 

Ay, the Queen ! — whom Pat loves ! — I humbly take 
my leave — 
[He goes to the King as if to shake hands, Patricia 

stops him; he withdraws humbly. The King gra- 
ciously offers him his hand.^ 

— to thank the Queen. 

[He goes up the road with Patricia.] 

Did ye see that, Pat.'' The King! He took me by 
the hand ! 

[Exit.] 

CHARLES 

[Laughing.] Odds bobs! A whimsical customer. 
[To Patricia.] Sit. Sit. 

PATRICIA 

[Standing.] 'Twere ill manners. 

CHARLES 

I command I 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

Oh, Sire ! That's no manners at all. 

CHARLES 

[Rises.] The King entreats. 

PATRICIA 

[Sitting resignedly.] Oh, well! There, then. 
[Charles sits beside her; looks at her earnestly and 

heaves a tremendous sigh.] 
[Patricia imitates him, and then breaks into merry 

laughter.] 

CHARLES 

So you love that shabby old priest? 



Heartily. 

And the Queen? 

Devoutly. 

And whom else? 



PATRICIA 



CHARLES 



PATRICIA 



CHARLES 



PATRICIA 

There's Moyra, my nurse. 



ACT III 

CHARLES 

Whom else? 

PATRICIA 

Why, that's three; and three's enough. 

CHARLES 

But the sum of all these loves is mere affection. 
Come, now; whom do you love? 

PATRICIA 

[Demureli/.'] My father confessor has just left me. 

CHARLES 

Then you shall be my mother-confessor, and I'll make 
a clean breast of it; for I vow I love you. 

PATRICIA 

Alas, poor sinner, for that there's no absolution. 

CHARLES 

Truly; for I shall never repent on't. 

PATRICIA 

But soon forget it. 

CHARLES 

Nor that, either. 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

Do you load your memory with all your loves ? 

CHARLES 

By my truly, I think you'll drive me mad. 

PATRICIA 

By my truly, I think you're mad already. 

CHARLES 

Why.'' What symptoms have I shown.'' 

PATRICIA 

Foh ! 'Tis the act of an accomplished madman to 
talk of love to a maid, when he has none to give, and she 
would not take it, if he had. 

CHARLES 

Why would she not take it, if you please? 

PATRICIA 

If you please, because 'tis common property. 

CHARLES 

Take care ! 'Tis perilously near high treason to speak 
so of your king. 

PATRICIA 

Only the King hears me. 



ACT III 

CHARLES 

Come now; no need to flash at me so. The girl who 
rode alone from God knows where; the girl who only 
t'other day set the whole court blushing — 

PATRICIA 

[Indignant.l Stop ! The court blushed for its own 
evil thought ; not for mine ! 

CHARLES 

Well, it blushed; and to make my court blush was an 
achievement. I say, the girl who did all this, is no such 
paragon of crop-eared virtue. 

PATRICIA 

[Rising. 1 And therefore no company for a King. 

CHARLES 

[Holding her.'] Wait! wait! You cannot go till the 
King dismisses you. 

PATRICIA 

I can be silent while he holds me. 

CHARLES 

Be silent, then, and listen. Why, if you be so strict, 
have you made me love you? [Patricia makes a move- 
ment of protest.] I'll answer for you. You'll say you 
haye done no such thing. To which I reply, you have. 



MAVOURNEEN 

You've filched my love. [Patricia starts.^ Ay! If 
not actively, then passively, by your mere existence. 
You are merry, and I love mirth; brave, and I love 
courage; beautiful, and I love beauty. But you have 
actively encouraged my love. 

IShe starts again indignantly. "j 

You are not to speak ! 

l^She gives a gasp of impatience.^ 

You have been good to the Queen, 

[^He takes her hand.'] 
and Heaven knows I vrish her well — now she's to be so 
short a time with me. You've been good to me too: 
laughed at my jests; not turned away prudishly when I 
gazed at you; condescended to accept my gifts. \^At 
this a look of horror crosses Patricia's face.] A poor 
King values such kindness when 'tis offered for no selfish 
reason. Now you may speak. 

PATRICIA 

[Breahing away from him.] If you was any other 
man — I'd slap your face. 

CHARLES 

Slap it, and welcome. 

PATRICIA 

For you make me angry, and you make me laugh, all 
in the same breath. 

-C 168 > 



ACT III 

CHARLES 

Laugh, my dear; 'tis the more wholesome. 

PATRICIA 

Have you ever spoke plain sense? 

CHARLES 

Always 

PATRICIA 

Or heard it spoke ? 

CHARLES 

Never. 

PATRICIA 

There, now! Now let's sit cosy and friendly, and 
you shall take off your crown. 

CHARLES 

And lay it at your feet. 

PATRICIA 

And I'll put aside my armour of maidenly reserve. 

CHARLES 

That's what I've been urging you to do. 

PATRICIA 

There! 'Tis gone. [She sits.^ Now you're plain 
Charles, and I plain Pat. 

<169> 



MAVOURNEEN 

CHARLES 

[Laughing.'] A Maiden did a Shepherd spy — 

PATRICIA 

With all his lambs around him — 

CHARLES 

He saw Dan Cupid in her eye — 

PATRICIA 

And left him where he found him. 

CHARLES 

[Laughing.'] No, no! It doesn't go that way. 

PATRICIA 

That's the way it goes, and we could jingle so till 
supper and get no further. Now, plainly, what is't you 
want .f* 

CHARLES 

I thought I had put it plainly. 

PATRICIA 

You want me to be your mistress? 

CHARLES 

I did not put it so plainly as that. 



ACT III 

PATRICIA 

Is that the sense of it ? 

CHARLES 

That's the romance of it. 

PATRICIA 

Oh, what becomes of poor romance? Think of Lady 
Castlemaine. 

CHARLES 

Ay ! Think of whence she started and to what heights 
she's risen ! Haven't I loaded her with wealth ? 
Haven't I made her daughter a duchess? And see what 
I've made of her husband ! 

PATRICIA 

[LooJeing him full in the face."] Wonderful! Won- 
derful ! He truly does not see the irony of it ! 

[As Charles is about to speak.'] 

Hold your whisht, now; for whenever you speak you 
make matters worse. 

CHARLES 

[Humbly; imitating her.] I hould my whisht. 

PATRICIA 

I'm not going to preach at you, so don't yawn yet. 
You say you think well of me. 

< 171 > 



MAVOURNEEN 

CHARLES 

I say I love you. 

PATRICIA 

But what would you say if I was any other man's mis- 
tress ? 

CHARLES 

I should say he was a damned lucky dog; and I should 
cut off his head, 

PATRICIA 

[^Laughing."] Deed and truth, you're almost past talk- 
ing to, and that's a fact. Put the case a young man 
came to court to seek his fortune. Would you shower 
honours upon him, if he had no honour of his own ? But 
you ask me to barter my honour for honours. 

CHARLES 

Oh! 

PATRICIA 

I won't do it, and you won't ask me to. I respect my- 
self, Charles, and I like you well enough to want you to 
respect me. 

CHARLES 

I do! by my faith I do! 

PATRICIA 

Oh, Charles, Charles, how can the King respect the 
King's mistress.'' 



ACT III 

CHARLES 

Pat, the more you fight me, the more you set me on 
fire. I vow 'tis a new feeling takes hold of me. I don't 
know myself. Od rot it, Pat, I'm a gentleman, and 
you're the first lady I've ever met — save the Queen; and 
she, poor soul, doesn't count. I love you truly, and as 
you should be loved. I cannot let you go. I will not 
let you go. 

IHe takes her hand.l 

PATRICIA 

Yet, I'm going. 

CHARLES 

No, no. Listen. Kings have married their subjects 
ere now; Kings of England. Why! I dare say you are 
of older ancestry than I. 

PATRICIA 

[Flashing at him.} I should hope so! Why, the 
O'Briens of Castle O'Brien — ! 

CHARLES 

Well, what do you think of that now? [Rises.] 
Queen of England, eh? it sounds well! Eh? 

PATRICIA 

[As in a dream.'] Queen of England — ! 



MAVOURNEEN 

CHARLES 

Queen Patricia of England ! — Ods fish ! how the Irish 
would love me ! * 

[Patricia sees The Queen approaching. 1 

PATRICIA 

But you have forgotten — 

CHARLES 

[Eagerly.] What? What? 

PATRICIA 

[Pointing. 1 Queen Catherine of Braganza. 
[Enter The Queen, reclining in a chair on wheels, 
•which is pushed hy a footman. She is followed by two 
old Portuguese ladies of forbidding aspect. At her side 
walks her medical man, and with him Father O'Raf- 
FERTY, Portuguese Lords, a Priest, etc.'] 

CHARLES 

Here ? — What the plague ? — What brings her all 
this way round? 

[Patricia goes to The Queen and kisses her hand.] 

THE queen 

Ah! this good child! It is your father confessor, 'e 
tell me I shall find the King 'ere. 
* Grammont. 



ACT m 

CHARLES 

[Vexed, to O'Rafferty.] Oho! that's how you seek 
preferment, is it, my little — parish priest? 

THE QUEEN 

No, Charles; not parish priest. 'E say you want me 
to 'ave 'im made a Dean. 

CHARLES 

Oh, there's no such haste. 

THE QUEEN 

Oh, but there is. I am so 'appy that you ask some- 
thing of me, Charles ; and for this dear child, too, 'oom I 
love. 

CHARLES 

I don't ask it, Kate; I say there's no haste. I must 
know more of the man. Plague on't, I don't even know 
his name! 

PATRICIA 

Oh, yes, your Majesty; I told you: O'Rafferty. 

CHARLES 

O'Rafferty! 'Tis a name for a ballad. How can a 
man be a Dean, with such a name? Dean O'Rafferty! 
Foh! 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

Why, make him a Bishop, then, and he'll lose his name. 

THE QUEEN 

[Laughing.'} The dear Pat! She is always ready. 
[To O'Rafferty.] You 'ave the Queen's word, sir; and 
I think it shall be Bishop. 

o'rafferty 
[Overwhelmed and speechless.} Madam — 

THE QUEEN 

[To him, motioning him to retire.} You shall wait for 
my sweet Patricia. [To her ladies.} Appartase um 
pouco se faz favor. 

[The attendants and O'Rafferty retire, Patricia ac- 
companies O'Rafferty a little way.} 
Charles, have I pleased you? 

CHARLES 

[Comes to her.} You never could do otherwise; but 
there was no such haste. 

the queen 
[With a sad smile.} There is always 'aste to do a 
little good. 

CHARLES 

You have done nothing else since you have been here. 



ACT III 

THE QUEEN 

So very little. Come close, Patricia. Are you 'appy 
for your confessor? 

PATRICIA 

So happy ; and so grateful. 

THE QUEEN 

Now, while Charles is in a good 'umour, we must oc- 
cupy ourselves with you. 

PATRICIA 

Me, Madam — ? 

THE QUEEN 

'Ave I not 'card of a Montagu.'* 
[Charles becomes all ear.] 



PATRICIA 

[^Confused.J Nay, I beseech you 



.\ 



CHARLES 

Do you mean young Sidney Montagu, Kate? 

THE QUEEN 

I think 'is name is Sidney, eh, Patricia? 

CHARLES 

Odds fish, Miss Touch-me-not, blows the wind in that 
quarter ? 

-{:i77> 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

[Recovering, hut with flaming cheeTcs.'\ 'Tis an ill 
wind^ then, and blows neither of us any good! for the 
first time we met, he nearly spitted me on his sword ; and 
the next I angered him so, that he left the court forever ! 

CHARLES 

Ay ! I remember. He could not stomach a j est. 
Oh! A crop-eared ranter. 

PATRICIA 

[Indignant.'] No such thing. Sire; but a very brave 
gentleman. 

CHARLES 

[Leading her on.] Aha? No faults in him? 

PATRICIA 

For that, a thousand, no doubt [with a look at the 
King] as in all of us. 

THE QUEEN 

But with a good 'cart under all. 

PATRICIA 

[With spirit.'] I know nought of his heart. Madam. 

THE QUEEN 

We will find out 'is 'eart. I must see you 'appy before 
I die. 



ACT III 

CHARLES 

[To The Queen.] Will you suffer me to have one 
word with this — with Lady Patricia? [He takes Pa- 
tricia by the hand a little apart.} Wretch! Thou art 
deep as a well. 

PATRICIA 

Nay, but as clear. 

CHARLES 

Tell me truly! Do you love this Montagu? 

PATRICIA 

Oh, leave that be. Speak to the Queen. Speak 
kindly to her. Don't you see she's dying for love of 
you? 

CHARLES 

Pat ! I vow to Gad, if you stay at court, I believe I 
shall turn Saint! [To The Queen.] You've hit it, 
Kate. Odds fish, we shall have a wedding at court. 
Your new Bishop shall join their hands. 

the queen 
[Holding out her hand to Patricia, who kneels and 
takes it and kisses it.} I am glad. 

PATRICIA 

[Holding The Queen's hand; to Charles.] Now if 
you condescend to give me your hand. Sire — 



MAVOURNEEN 

CHARLES 

Ay, willingly; [Laughing a little ruefully.'] but I'll 
not say I'm glad, till I see how you agree together. 

PATRICIA 

[Gently putting The Queen's hand in The King's.] 
We shall have your example, Sire. [Rises.^ 
[Charles and The Queen are momentarily thrilled each 
in their own way, by the touch of their hands. Patri- 
cia moves away a little.^ 

the queen 
[Clinging to Charles's hand; wistfully.'] I would I 
could be as merry as you, meu amor. But I am far from 
my 'ome, Charles. I 'ave been a poor, sickly thing, un- 
worthy to keep your love. And now, per'aps I am dying. 
But God knows I loved you truly; and I willingly leave 
all in the world but you. 

CHARLES 

[Deeply moved.] I protest, I honour you; I love you; 
and I will do my endeavours to be a better husband to 
you. [Kisses her hand.] * 

PATRICIA 

[Who is very near weeping; gaily.] And with that, 
in with you, sweet lady; for there is a nip of October in 

* Agnes Strickland. 



ACT III 

the air. Yet, Madam [shyly] will you condescend to 
me? 

THE QUEEN 

'Ow, sweet child? 

PATRICIA 

[On her knees.] Will you kiss me? 

THE QUEEN 

O gladly. 'Old me up, Charles. [Charles puts his 
arm round her; she looks yearningly into his face.] Ah, 
'usband, the comfort of your arm about me! [To 
Patricia with a gesture of blessing.] A santissima vir- 
gem vos guarda minha car a! I love you very dearly. 
[She takes Patricia's hand between her hands and 
kisses her long and tenderly on both cheeks; then, as she 
is taken out.] Charles, if you 'old me thus, I think I 
shall soon be a well woman. 
[The Footman wheels her out; Charles goes with her, 

still holding her in his arm. All follow except O'Raf- 

FERTY and Patricia. The latter remains on her 

knees.] 

o'rafferty 
[Struggling with his emotion.] Pat — 

PATRICIA 

Don't speak to me ! 



MAVOURNEEN 

o'rafferty 
[Humbly.] I'll wait. 

PATRICIA 

And don't stand there like a wax image. Call Hafiz. 

o'rafferty 
What's that at all? 

PATRICIA 

Oh, clap your hands and you'll see. 
[She is taking off her jewellery, her watch, bracelets, etc. 
and putting all in her pocket-handkerchief which she 
has spread on the ground. O'Rafferty obediently 
claps his hands, and at once a black page in an oriental 
dress runs down the stairs from Patricia's lodging, 
and comes to her. He stands grinning with gleaming 
teeth.] 

o'rafferty 
What are you doing, Pat ? 

PATRICIA 

[On her knees.] Tearing down my house of cards, 
Padre — Ah, you don't know. [To Hafiz.] Now, you 
ebony iniquity, can you understand? [Hafiz nods a de- 
lighted " Yes."] Take this handkerchief to the King's 
lodging. Say you come from Patricia O'Brien. Then 
they'll lead you to the King. Are you frightened? 



ACT III 

[Hafiz only grins.'\ Hand this handkerchief to the 
King himself. Have you understood? [Hafiz grins 
and moves away.'] Wait, Here's ten guineas for your- 
self. And Mistress Brooke is looking for just such a 
monkey. Go to her. 

[Hafiz salaam's and runs off at the hach.] 

o'rafferty 
What is this play-acting, Pat? 

PATRICIA 

[Rising and giving him a handful of gold.] And 
here's for your poor. 

o'rafferty 
You're stripping yourself. 

PATRICIA 

Sure: that, too, presently. Ha! Now I can breathe. 
It's all gone. Father: money, and jewels, and prefer- 
ment, and — love. 

o'rafferty 

Child, child, what are you concealing from me? 

PATRICIA 

A sorrow, but no sin; I'm not bound to confess my 
sorrow, and a ride will shake it out o' me. Go hire a 
pair of hackneys. Father. [At a movement from him.] 



MAVOURNEEN 

Oh, I've money of my own upstairs; the stocking was a 
long one. 

o'rafferty 
What are you going to do ? 

PATRICIA 

We're both going to ride away to-night. Away, away, 
till we come to the sea ; and then we're going to sail ■ — to 
Castle O'Brien. 

o'rafferty 
Glory be to God ! 

PATRICIA 

[Almost hysterical.^ Oh, 'twill be a fine ride and a 
gay sailing. I'll be the good company for you, and 
we'll talk of tragic Queens and merry Kings, and proud 
and stony-hearted lovers. And when we do come to the 
grey old castle, Moyra will greet us, and we'll sit by the 
fire, and you shall play your fiddle to us — but I shall 
not dance ; I shall never dance again ! 

o'rafferty 
Till you dance at your wedding, acushla. 
[Exit through the shrubbery. A lamplighter comes and 
lights the lamps in the colonnade. Enter excitedly 
Bristol, Berkeley, Ashley, Mrs. Myddleton, Mrs. 



ACT III 

Roberts and the two Misses Brooke. They come in 
from different directions.^ 
[Castlemaine is brought on in a sedan.~\ 

BERKELEY 

Have you heard the news? 

BRISTOL 

\^At the same time.'\ Have you heard the news? 
[Other courtiers come on.] 

MYDDLETON 

Poor Castlemaine ! Oh, poor Babs ! 

ROBERTS 

Where will she go? 

MISS HILL BROOKE 

Well, I, for one, was never fond of her. 

MYDDLETON 

She was a false friend, and I hate a false friend. 

MISS FRANCES BROOKE 

An upstart. 
[Enter Buckingham with Lady Arlington, from the 
shrubbery.'] 

BUCKINGHAM 

What, my sparks, not arrayed for the frolic? 



MAVOURNEEN 

ROBERTS 

How did she bear her disgrace? 

MISS HILL BROOKE 

[To Buckingham.] George, you know. Tell us all. 

ALL 

[^Crowding round him.'} Tell us! Tell us! 

BUCKINGHAM 

My good souls, what in the world are you talking 
about ? 

BERKELEY 

By the living Moses, he doesn't know I 

ROBERXa 

The Castlemaine — ! 

ALL 

Is dismissed ! 

BUCKINGHAM 

What ? One at a time ! 

BERKELEY 

The King has sent Castlemaine to Coventry^ 

MYDDLETON 

Or Jericho — 



ACT III 

BRISTOL 



Or Bath! 



MISS HILL BROOKE 

And the Queen's so happy, she's taken a turn for the 
better. 

ROBERTS 

I'd give a fortune to see the Castlemaine's face ! 
[Lady Castlemaine has come among them unper- 
ceived.'] 

CASTLEMAINE 

Here it is. 

[Dead pause. Everybody is nonplussed.'] 

BRISTOL 

Hum — 'tis time we were sped. [He moves to go."] 

ROBERTS 

I'm with you. 

CASTLEMAINE 

No ! You were concerned about my face. What do 
you say about it? 

BUCKINGHAM 

[Cheerily.'] Wliy, Babs, we say you put a good face 
on bad news ! But 'tis nought. Rowley has a fit o' the 



MAVOURNEEN 

spleen. Absence makes the heart grow fonder. He'll 
soon tire of the sick Queen again. 
[Enter Arlington.] 

CASTLEMAINE 

And what has the Queen to do with it? 

BERKELEY 

Why, some say her black love-locks have snared him 
again. 

ALL 

Arlington ! 

ARLINGTON 

You're out! You're all out! 'Tis the Lady Patricia 
has fished him and caught him. I know the whole story 
from Chiffinch. The bargain was struck on this very 
spot, not half an hour ago. 

BUCKINGHAM 

Unhappy Babs, your little hour is run ! 
The waning moon fades in the rising sun. 

CASTLEMAINE 

Do you think I'll cede to this bog-trotting upstart so 
easily? Come hither and watch. 
[She rises and goes towards Patricia's lodging; the 

others follow her.'\ 



ACT III 

BUCKINGHAM 

[To Berkeley.] This beats cockfighting ! 
lEnter Pepys and Sidney Montagu.] 

PEPYS 

You have done well, my young friend; and I shall 
report highly of you to the King. 

MONTAGU 

Oh, let be. Master Secretary. I care nothing for re- 
wards. 

CASTLEMAINE 

[To Buckingham.] Throw a pebble at her window. 

MONTAGU 

\_Continuing, throwing his cloak on the seat under the 
tree.^ If you wish to do me a service, send me on a more 
perilous and more distant errand. 

ALL 

lAs Buckingham throws a pebble."] Missed! 

MONTAGU 

[Continuing.] Something wherein my life may be in 
jeopardy. 

PEPYS 

Fie, sir, what wicked talk is this? 
<189> 



MAVOURNEEN 

ARLINGTON 

[Coming down to Montagu.] Ah, Ensign! You've 
come at the right moment. 

[Bristol comes down.l 

You shall foot it to-night! Sir, you shall behold my 
wife at her best. There is to be a bal champetre, in 
honour of — 

BRISTOL 

Discretion, Arlington. 

MONTAGU 

I am in no humour for prancings, my lord. 
[Buckingham has thrown another pebble, with more 
success; a maid comes out of Patricia's room on to the 
balcony.] 

castlemaine 
The Countess of Castlemaine will speak with your 
mistress. [The Maid goes in.] 

BRISTOL 

[Arresting Montagu.] Oh, foh! [Confidentially.] 
If you wish the King's favour, young man, you must 
court the rising star. 

MONTAGU 

I seek no favour, and I heed no star. 



ACT III 

MAID 

[^Re appearing J saucily.1 My mistress says she'll 
come when she's ready. lExit.l 

ALL 

Oh! 

[Castlemaine is furious."] 

BRISTOL 

[To Montagu.] That's new, then; for t'other day 
you was absorbed in its rays. 

MONTAGU 

Mr. PepySj can you throw light on this Bedlam? 

PEPYS 

Take no heed. They are jesting. 

MONTAGU 

I like not the manner of it. 
\^He moves to go but is arrested hy Buckingham's 
words. Buckingham emerges from the Castlemaine 
group and speaks.] 

myddleton 
\To the group.] Hush! Hush! 



MAVOURNEEN 

BUCKINGHAM 

I'faith! We must serenade the lady. [He impro- 
vises.^ 

Patricia from the Emerald Isle, 
And clad in boyish trim, sir. 

MONTAGU 

What's that? 

BUCKINGHAM 

Came riding gaily many a mile. 
Looking demure and prim, sir. 

PEPYS 

[Hurriedly, to Montagu.] Come away! 
[Montagu shakes him off.] 

BUCKINGHAM 

She saw the King, and full of guile, 

Set to to fish for him, sir; 
Her hook she baited with a smile. 

And with a shapely limb, sir. 

CRIES 

Oh, very good! Go on! 

[Montagu has come near the group.^ 



ACT III 

BUCKINGHAM 

What more she showed I'll not compile; 
'Tis time to dout the glim, sir — 
[Laughter.'} 

BUCKINGHAM 

Faith ! I want another rhyme in " lie " — 

MONTAGU 

I have one for you, sir. 

BUCKINGHAM 

Oho ! The merry Montagu. Let's hear. 

MONTAGU 

Buckingham's little soul is vile; 
Buckingham's wit is dim, sir. 

BUCKINGHAM 

Poor ! Poor ! I'll not take it. 

MONTAGU 

IDraxvs.'] Will you take it at the point of my sword? 

CASTLEMAINE 

Run him through, George ! 
[The two men are face to face in the centre of the stage. 
The others surround them. Patricia, in her hoy's 



MAVOURNEEN 

dress, as in Act 1, comes out of her room and sees what 
is going on.] 

PEPYS 

[In great excitement.'] I'll to the King! 

[Exit.] 

BUCKINGHAM 

Gentlemen do not fight in the presence of ladies. 

MONTAGU 

I'm not to fight a gentleman, but to punish a ruffian 
and coward ! 

BUCKINGHAM 

By God — ! 
[He draws. The women scream. The men make more 
room for the fighters. Buckingham salutes and at- 
tacks Montagu; but Patricia comes quickly through 
the group, and with her rapier knocks up the two 
swords.] 

PATRICIA 

My quarrelj I think, 

MONTAGU 

[Amazed.] Patricia ! 

PATRICIA 

[Coldly.] The same, sir. [She gets in front of 
him, facing Buckingham.] On guard! 



ACT III 

BUCKINGHAM 

I do not fight with a woman. [He puts up his 
sword.l 

PATRICIA 

True: you stab her in the back. 

MONTAGU 

[Trying to thrust her aside.'] Get you within. I 
will attend to this. 

PATRICIA 

[Coldly.'] Have I asked you to help me? 

CASTLEMAINE 

[To Buckingham.] Have nought to do with the 
shameless hussy ! 

PATRICIA 

Oho, my Lady Castlemaine? Now, I thought the 
King had bidden you leave prestissimo! 

CASTLEMAINE 

I shall be here long after you are tossed aside, a 
broken toy ! 

PATRICIA 

Better tossed aside broken, than handed on — flawed. 

CASTLEMAINE 

[Furious.] You — you minx ! 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

l^Laughing.l Lord! Is that the foulest you can call 
me? I could find a hundred worse names for you, and 
nearer the mark. 

CASTLEMAINE 

[Advancing on her.'\ By heaven I'll teach you your 
station ! 

PATRICIA 

[Facing her; quite calmly.'] My station, is it? O 
whirra, and you'll tache me? Which are you prouder 
of, the title the King gave your husband, or the title 
the people give him? You won 'em both for him, and 
you're welcome to what pride you can get out of 'em! 
Oh, save the mark ! Are you proud of your station ? 

CASTLEMAINE 

Arlington, lead me away from this — fishfag! 

PATRICIA 

Ay, lead her away, my Lord; a fishfag's too honest 
company. 

[Arlington leads Castlemaine off.] 

BUCKINGHAM 

[To Montagu.] All this you shall answer for. 



ACT III 

PATRICIA 

[Turning sharply on him.'} Oh, no! Oh, no! lean 
answer for myself, and I do need no champion. [At 
Montagu.] Least of all a young gentleman who can- 
not see the nose before his face; who takes virtue for 
vice, and rushes at conclusions like a bull at a red rag. 

BUCKINGHAM 

[Sternly.} You are making enemies. 

PATRICIA 

You? I thank Saint Patrick! For to have you as 
my friend were to advertise myself as all you say I 
am. O, you — Hero ! Brave in battle, but with the 
dirty lampooning, backbiter's cowardly heart! [She 
turns away.} 

BUCKINGHAM 

[Drawing on Montagu.] Come, sir! Come! 

PATRICIA 

I forbid it! [With a turn of her rapier she sends 
Buckingham's flying.} Pick up your sword, my Lord. 
[A murmur of admiration.} 

BUCKINGHAM 

[With grave courtesy.} By heaven. Madam, that was 
brilliant. I salute you. [He takes off his hat with a 
flourish.} 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

[Condescendingly. 1 Keep your head covered, Sir. 
You are very welcome. [Sheathes her sword, and sits 
under the tree."] 

BUCKINGHAM 

[To Montagu.] And you, my young sprig, shall 
lose nothing by waiting. 

MONTAGU 

At your leisure. 

[Chiffinch comes in in a great hurry.'] 

CHIFFINCH 

Oh, fie ! Oh, fie ! Ladies — gentlemen — the King 
awaits you ! 

[All the courtiers go out, talking excitedly.] 

BUCKINGHAM 

[With a grim laugh.] The King! By my faith, I'm 
in fine trim for a frolic ! 

LADY ARLINGTON 

[Calling after him.] George! 

BUCKINGHAM 

Oh, Lord, I forgot! Come then! [He gives her his 
hand.] 

[All hut Patricia and Montagu exeunt.] 



ACT III 

MONTAGU 

l^To her J sternly.] Now ! 'Tis you and I. 

PATRICIA 

^Looking him up and down.] What have you to say 
to me, sir? 

MONTAGU 

You have told these people the truth, emboldened 
thereto by the rise in your fortunes — 

PATRICIA 

What rises that at all ? 

MONTAGU 

Nay, you shall not put me off with questions. 'Tis 
now my turn to show you the truth. 

PATRICIA 

There's moon enough to see it by. 

MONTAGU 

[Furious.] Nor you shall not tease me into a temper, 
neither. 

PATRICIA 

I never exert myself needlessly, 
-C199> 



MAVOURNEEN 

MONTAGU 

[Pulling himself together.'] You gave the Castle- 
maine no more than she deserved — 

PATRICIA 

[Demurely-I Thank you. 

MONTAGU 

[Tragically.'] But do you deserve less? 

PATRICIA 

[With a dangerous glitter.] Oho? 

MONTAGU 

You win my love — 

PATRICIA 

[Ironically.] So it seems. 

MONTAGU 

[Not to be put of.] I say, you win my love: the 
love of a simple youth; faithful and true — 

PATRICIA 

So did the Castlemaine. 

MONTAGU 

[Violently.] You shall not put me out! 

< 200 :}. 



ACT III 

PATRICIA 

[^Quietly.J I have. 

MONTAGU 

[Beginning to flounder.'] And having, as I say, won 
my love, you — you toss it aside — like — like — 

PATRICIA 

[Helpful.'] Never mind the simile. I toss it aside. 

MONTAGU 

And pursue your fortune with the King — 

PATRICIA 

[With the dangerous gleam again.] Aha! 

MONTAGU 

[Virtuously.] And when by actions I will not de- 
scribe, you had driven me from court, and sent me 
headlong upon a perilous adventure — 

PATRICIA 

From which you return unscathed. 

MONTAGU 

Then you pursued your fortune untrammelled, so 
that when I come back, 'tis to find — 

-C201> 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

[ Gleaming. ] Yes ? 

MONTAGU 

'Tis to find you in the Castlemaine's shoes. 

PATRICIA 

\_Drawing her rapier. Rises.} On guard! 



What? 
On guard ! 
But — 



MONTAGU 



PATRICIA 



MONTAGU 



PATRICIA 

On guard! or by the universe^ I'll run you through. 

MONTAGU 

\Horrifled.'\ I — ? Yi^t you? 

PATRICIA 

You challenged me in tlie inn-yard, when I came 
betwixt you and your Castlemaine. 'Tis an old score, 
Master Sidney, and now you've added to it. On guard! 
\_A pause, Montagu gazing into her face the while 

and paying no attention to his fencing. 1 



ACT III 

PATRICIA 

[Hitting his sword.'] Stiffen your wrist, man! This 
is not child's play. On guard! 

MONTAGU 

I can't. Your eyes are too beautiful. Kill me and 
ha' done with it. 

PATRICIA 

Then unsay what you said just now. 

MONTAGU 

What.? 

PATRICIA 

That you love me. 

MONTAGU 

I'll be damned if I do! 

PATRICIA 

[Attacking.'] On guard then! 

MONTAGU 

[Throwing his sword away.] Run me through. I'd 
sooner die! [He stands before her with his arms 
stretched apart. 

PATRICIA 

On your head be it! 



MAVOURNEEN 

l^Ske rushes at him, as if to kill him, but flings herself 
into his arms, sending her sword flying.'] 

MONTAGU 

[Dumbfounded.'\ What — what does this mean? 

PATRICIA 

Oh, Sidney, what does it look as if it meant? 
[Zn the distance the King's procession is seen dancing 
in, Charles leading the way. They come in single 
file, the whole court, a man and a woman alternately, 
each carrying a small paper lantern. All are in domi- 
noes and masks. They follow the King as he threads 
his way in and out among the trees. At a signal from 
the King they conceal their lamps under their dominoes 
and so become invisible. Thus they ultimately form 
a wide semicircle round the lovers before these are 
aware of their presence.'] 

PATRICIA 

[Closing Montagu's mouth with her hand.] Hould 
your whisht now! You don't believe a word you've 
heard. You do know you can love me, and I can love 
you. [She points to her dress.] Why, look — [Sud- 
denly conscious of her legs and trying ineffectually to 
hide them with her hands.] No!! — Sidney, where is 
your cloak? 



ACT III 

MONTAGU 

\^Picking it wp.] Here. 

PATRICIA 

{^Puts it round her legs like a skirt."] Thank you. 
Now — what was I saying? 

MONTAGU 

You said " Look " — 

PATRICIA 

I didn't mean that. I meant I was clad like this, 
because I am riding home with Father O'Rafferty, and 
'tis safer to ride as a boy. I'm riding home poorer than 
I oamC; and humbler, and wiser, and — 

MONTAGU 

[Folding her in his arms.] Your home's here, and 
you'll ride no further. 
[The semi-circle is formed. The lamps are suddenly 

flashed on the lovers.] 

PATRICIA 

[With a cry.] Oh! 

MONTAGU 

[In a rage, to the King^ who, like the others, is 
masked.] Ha! What graceless rogue — ? 



MAVOURNEEN 

CHARLES 

My felicitations, young gentleman. 

MONTAGU 

IHorrified.] The King! — Pat! we're done for! 
[^They flop on their knees. ^ 

PATRICIA 

We are! 

CHARLES 

Mr. Secretary Pepys reports you have served us well. 

PEPYS 

[Advancing.l Indeed, your Majesty, 'tis most true. 

CHARLES 

[At a sign from him, Pepys picks up one of the dis- 
carded swords and hands it to him. The King takes off 
his glove."] I see you have disarmed before the fair. 
[He taps Montagu on the shoulder with the sword.] 
Rise, Sir Sidney Montagu — 

MONTAGU 

Sire — 

CHARLES 

That's but the beginning. [To Patricia.] This 



ACT III 

lady, now; the Queen loves her. I think her husband 
should be at least a Baron — 

PATRICIA 

Oh, Sire ! 

CHARLES 

IContinuing.] When she has won a husband. 

PATRICIA 

I've won him now, at the sword's point. {^She kisses 
the King's hand-l 

CHARLES 

You see I can reward even virtue; though, to be sure, 
I'm out of practice. [To the others.'\ Come! The 
Queen awaits us ! 
[The procession dances off as it came. Patricia and 

Montagu who had not risen from their knees, now fall 

sitting on their he els. ^ 

MONTAGU 

Is it a dream? 

PATRICIA 

Oh, I hope not! 
[Enters Father O'Rafferty playing softly on his fiddle 
Moyra's song; he slowly walks away, out of sight.l 

MONTAGU 

Why! [Quietly.] Who's this? 



MAVOURNEEN 

PATRICIA 

Sh! This is a Bishop. 

MONTAGU 

No, but truly? 

PATRICIA 

This is the Priest, all shaven and shorn — 

MONTAGU 

[Eagerly.] 

Who married the man all tattered and torn? 

PATRICIA 

[Demurely.'] 

Who kissed the maiden all forlorn — [As he still 
hesitates.] Well! Why don't you? 
[They turn their faces to each other where they sit, and 

kiss like two children. O'Rafferty's fiddle is heard 

in the distance.] 

[And the moon shines.] 

CURTAIN 



<208> 



